MARCH believes in the transformative power of art and culture as catalysts for positive change. This belief has inspired numerous initiatives such as the Theater for Reconciliation. Launched in 2015 in Tripoli, Lebanon, this groundbreaking program has successfully united and reconciled youth from diverse backgrounds through the medium of theater. By providing a safe and inclusive space for young individuals to share their stories on stage, break down stereotypical barriers, foster understanding, and deconstruct preconceived judgments. This innovative peacebuilding and rehabilitation tool, provides a platform for constructive dialogue and self-expression. Through the safe and inclusive space it creates, it allows participants to process any political, religious or personal grievances they may have and better understand “the other” away from divisive, prejudiced and stereotyped narratives.
The Sunni neighborhood of Beb El Tabbaneh and the Alawite neighborhood of Jabal Mohsen had been in a long-standing, cross-generational feud that had fostered animosity and resentment between their respective communities. Their conflict seemed to be rooted in their religious and ideological differences and garnered national attention. The volatility of the area coupled with prejudice and misinformation led to the ostracization of that part of Tripoli. Following the violent clashes that had erupted in 2011 between Jabal Mohsen and Beb El Tabbaneh, MARCH decided to try and reconcile youth from both sides of the frontlines.
Love and War on the Rooftop: The Beginning of a Journey: The journey of Theater for Reconciliation began with the production “Love and War on the Rooftop” in Tripoli. The play brought together young people from Jabal Mohsen and Beb el Tebbeneh, two historically divided communities with a long-standing history of conflict. Through this powerful performance, the youth were able to bridge their differences, forging connections that transcended their cultural and social boundaries.
The idea was to create a theater play inspired by their war-torn lives and personal experiences and offer them a chance to tell their own story and set their own narrative. Following the ceasefire imposed by the army in 2014, we held auditions to recruit young men that would be willing to share a piece of themselves and their history. The process was extremely challenging but we ultimately managed to convince 16 individuals to take part in the play. The project was experimental, its goal was to encourage constructive dialogue and build bridges away from sectarian divide. We wanted to help the participants see past the stereotypes they had of one another. Although there were some challenging moments, the initiative proved to be quite cathartic. It helped them rediscover their identity and see each other in a different light. Enemies became friends and former fighters became actors.
Expanding Horizons: A Growing Movement
Following the success of “Love and War on the Rooftop” Theater for Reconciliation expanded its reach to other areas of Lebanon. Initiatives like “Tripoliyat” and “Habib El Kel” in Akkar, as well as “Hona Beirut” and “Cafe b Kaffak” in the capital Beirut, continued to build bridges between communities and inspired open dialogues about unity and diversity.
Taarafou: The Latest Triumph: The most recent addition to Theater for Reconciliation is “Taarafou”, a comedy play that brought together 20 young men and women from different communities in Beirut. Written and directed by Yehya Jaber, the play was made possible as it draws inspiration from the real-life experiences of its cast members, creating a performance that celebrates the diversity of Lebanon’s youth.
A Message of Unity and Acceptance: Theater for Reconciliation, including its latest production “Taarafou” has played a pivotal role in sparking meaningful conversations around embracing diversity as a source of unity. By providing a platform for young individuals to share their stories and experiences, the program has challenged divisive narratives and fostered a sense of understanding and acceptance among Lebanon’s youth.
Lastly, Theater for Reconciliation stands as a beacon of hope in a community once divided by conflict and misunderstanding. Through the power of art and storytelling, this transformative program continues to bridge gaps between communities, proving that unity and acceptance can be achieved through shared experiences and empathy.
