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In a groundbreaking theatrical adaptation that reverberates with contemporary resonance, Lebanese theatre director Caroline Hatem skillfully reimagines Anna Seghers’ seminal work, Transit, situating its narrative within the pressing context of displacement and emigration. The play, Transit Tripoli, is scheduled for a series of performances on March 14, 15, 16, 17, 21, 22, 23 and 24, at Al Madina Theater in Hamra, Beirut, with English subtitles on March 14 and 21.
Caroline Hatem’s adaptation of Anna Seghers’ seminal work, Transit, aptly titled Transit Tripoli, offers a poignant reflection on the themes of waiting, identity and the relentless pursuit of freedom amidst geopolitical turmoil. This innovative production, which premiered at the Akademie der Künste in Berlin in November 2022 and subsequently hosted a residency at the Schaubühne Theatre in Berlin, makes its Beirut debut in March 2024 at Al Madina Theater. Transit Tripoli is performed predominantly in Arabic, with a duration of 75 minutes. The adaptation and directing are masterfully executed by Caroline Hatem, with a translation team comprising herself, Josef Akiki and Bassel Shalghheen. The production also credits Bassel Shalghheen as the dramaturg. The sole actor gracing the stage is Josef Akiki, whose performance is complemented by the live music and sound design of Rabih Gebeile. The digital scenography, pivotal in conjuring the ambiance of Tripoli’s streets and cafés, is led by Velica Panduru in Berlin and Alexandre Habre in Lebanon, with costume design and wings by Nour Domloje. The visual narrative is further enriched by video work from Walid Abdelnour, light design by Erich Schneider and drawings by Jean-Marc Nahas, with additional contributions from Luca Nihawi and Rabih Gebeile.
Transit Tripoli is a production by Yazan, in collaboration with co-producer Akademie der Künste, it holds performance rights from Kiepenheuer Medien.
Through Transit Tripoli, Caroline Hatem pays homage to Anna Seghers’ vibrant and compelling storytelling and casts a contemporary lens on the universal quest for autonomy and belonging against the backdrop of historical and current crises. This adaptation promises to be a deeply moving, immersive theatrical experience that explores the human condition with empathy, complexity and artistic innovation.
With an early bird discount of 30% available until February 25, audiences are encouraged to secure their tickets promptly through Antoine Ticketing’s platform.
