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The Rumman Music Festival, initiated by the French Institute of Lebanon in Tripoli and the Rumman Tripoli Music Hub, returns for its second edition this October.
Scheduled for Saturday October 14, 2023, this year’s festival is not just an event but a celebration of culture, history and the inauguration of the new venue, Stereo Kawalis. Located in the heart of Tripoli, the venue has transformed the historic “Cinema Radio” into a modern performing arts space. As the festival aims to mirror Tripoli’s vibrant streets, it will showcase a myriad of talents from across the globe, especially from Lebanon, Egypt, Syria and France.
The much-anticipated 2nd Edition of the Rumman Music Festival is upon us! After a successful inauguration at the Rachid Karameh International Fair with over 2,500 attendees last year, we are now back with more vigor and zeal. This time, the festival will be held at the newly refurbished Stereo Kawalis in Mina, Tripoli, marking the revitalization of the once renowned Cinema Radio.
About Rumman: Founded in 2021 in El Mina, Tripoli, Rumman is more than just a music venue. It’s an initiative that prioritizes the promotion and growth of independent music in the region. Beyond music events, Rumman also offers residency programs and fosters collaborative endeavors. With a vision to expand arts and culture beyond the boundaries of Beirut, Rumman serves as a nurturing platform for both budding and established artists.
The Festival: Last year’s Maarad Music Festival was an immersive experience that celebrated music and the restoration of an iconic venue. Our new edition, now rebranded as RMF, will be held in the heart of Mina, at Stereo Kawalis, which replaces the historic Cinema Radio. Reviving an architectural relic, the venue now stands as a beacon for independent music in the city. With a rich schedule that includes music concerts, rehearsal spaces and international artist residency programs, we hope to make this a hub for artistic excellence.
Fittingly, the festival’s timing aligns with Lebanon’s pomegranate season, “Rumman,” symbolizing abundance and richness. This year’s festival promises a medley of artistic residencies and concerts featuring diverse music genres. Over the six days leading up to the festival, the vibrant alleys of Mina will pulsate with music and cultural exchanges, culminating in a grand celebration on October 14.
Artists Spotlight:
- BAHGAGA (EGxLB): This Egyptian ensemble will make its Lebanese debut, presenting comedic monologues and songs that revive the Egyptian art of comedy. They will be performing alongside Lebanese accordionist Samah Boulmona.
- RUST (LBxSY): A duo that ingeniously blends Arabic classics with contemporary electronica.
- KAWALIS RESIDENCY CONCERT: BELFORT-TRIPOLI (FRxLB): A cross-cultural collaboration between musicians from Belfort, France and Lebanon, the result of an artistic residency.
- YUKSEK (FR): The electronic maestro, known for his energetic mixes, will set the stage on fire with his distinctive sound.
The Venue: Stereo Kawalis: Formerly Cinema Radio, built by the late Michel El Kik, it served as a cultural cornerstone in the 1960s. However, subsequent deteriorations led to its closure in 1995. With its revival, we aim to regenerate cultural opportunities for residents of Mina.
Tickets and transportation: Ensuring accessibility for all, tickets can be pre-purchased via OMT for USD 10, with a complimentary drink. Door sales are priced at USD 15. For those traveling from Beirut, a shuttle service is available for USD 6, round-trip. Accommodation arrangements have been made with several local hotels, offering discounts upon presenting the festival ticket.
