Beirut, September 2024
L’Orient-Le Jour has chosen to celebrate its centennial in an iconic location in the Lebanese capital: the Beirut Hippodrome. On September 27 and 28, the festival “Un vent de liberté” will pay tribute to a century of independent journalism in Lebanon, while promoting freedom of expression, the exchange of ideas, and cultural diversity.
“Organizing a festival to mark a centenary is a huge challenge, a unique opportunity that only comes once in a lifetime. For many months, we have nurtured this project, dreaming of it in a mythical place, steeped in history, reflecting this centennial Lebanon. The Beirut Hippodrome, with its vintage charm, was an obvious choice, a space worthy of our ambition. The conflicts and instability of the region, a persistent shadow over these hundred years with its bursts of violence, should reinforce our resolve to continue our struggle,” explains Nayla de Freige, CEO of L’Orient-Le Jour.
The festival “Un vent de liberté” offers an ideal opportunity to share special moments with family or friends, in an environment conducive to constructive discussions on the themes of journalism, current events, and culture.
For two days, this event, located in the heart of Beirut, will highlight the values that have guided L’Orient-Le Jour since its inception: independence, free spirit, and creativity. A variety of activities will be offered, including:
- A Grand Debate on the theme “Middle East: Thinking About the Aftermath” with the participation of Dominique de Villepin, writer and former French Prime Minister, and Dominique Eddé, Lebanese writer
- A discussion about Lebanese cinema
- A debate competition with students from Saint Joseph University (USJ)
- A roundtable on freedom of expression and the cost of speaking out in the Arab world
- An exhibition of 100 historic front pages of L’Orient-Le Jour
“We have gathered voices of experience, men and women, young and old, from various backgrounds, to collectively envision the Lebanon of tomorrow in a tumultuous Middle East, each bringing their story, their vision,” adds Nayla de Freige.
The festival will also offer relaxation and refreshment areas:
- A dedicated children’s section with numerous activities;
- A dining area.
The event will conclude spectacularly on September 28 with an exceptional concert by Ibrahim Maalouf, not to be missed. “This festival will end on a high note with a dazzling concert, a festive moment that will resonate as a promise. As an influential media outlet, we aspire, alongside our readers and audience, to be the architects of a rebuilt Lebanon driven by hope and optimism, in search of sustainable solutions,” says Nayla de Freige.
On a world tour, “Ibrahim Maalouf & the Trumpets of Michel-Ange” will perform in Lebanon for the first time. With his innovative compositions and distinctive trumpet playing, Maalouf promises to captivate the Lebanese audience with enchanting melodies and an electrifying performance. A unique opportunity to experience live the album “The Trumpets of Michel-Ange,” a musical journey that harmoniously blends Eastern and Western influences.
An unforgettable evening at the crossroads of genres and emotions! Tickets are now on sale at Virgin Ticketing Box Office.
For more information, please contact: Nicole Karkour, Marketing Director of L’Orient-Le Jour +961 5 956444 – [email protected]
About L’Orient-Le Jour
L’Orient-Le Jour is real-time news from the Middle East, straight from Beirut. Continuous coverage in French—and recently in English through our sister publication L’Orient Today. OLJ also offers exclusive reports, geopolitical analysis, historical insights, explanatory videos, and unique investigations. All available online at lorientlejour.com or on the mobile app.
About Ibrahim Maalouf
Ibrahim Maalouf is a French-Lebanese trumpeter, composer, and arranger born in 1980 in Beirut. Renowned for his exceptional trumpet skills and innovative musical creations, Maalouf brilliantly fuses Eastern and Western influences. A multiple award winner, he is known for albums such as “Diagnostic” and “Red & Black Light.” His music, often imbued with poetry and virtuosity, makes him a prominent figure on the contemporary music scene.