Old and New Lebanese Music on NPR Music…
It is no surprise that Fairuz, with her rich, enchanting voice ended up as part of NPR’s 50 Great Voices Series, but it is refreshing to listen to what’s happening in the current Lebanese music scene in “Beirut’s Jam Is Mashrou’ Leila’s ‘Embembelela7.’” Follow the links and enjoy… // 07.26.2010

Carved Success…
An amazing article about an even more amazing man and artist — woodworker Sam Maloof was featured in NPR’s All Things Considered shortly before his death. We will keep this short because you must go read and listen to every word here >> // 07.20.2010
World-renowned architect Zaha Hadid was recently named UNESCO Artist for Peace in recognition of her efforts to raise public awareness of intercultural dialogue and promote excellence in design and creativity. Upon receiving the award Hadid said, “The arts have always bridged cultural, economic and social divides; teaching us that disparate worlds are not mutually exclusive, but rather layered upon each other and profoundly interlinked.” This distinction follows her recent inclusion in TIME magazine’s 2010 list of “The 100 Most Influential People in the World.” // 07.13.2010

For the Literary Heads…
If you’re looking for a little summer reading, award-winning Lebanese-Canadian Author and Visual Artist Rawi Hage has recently published a fast-paced and eccentric piece titled “Stray Dogs” in the latest issue of Tin House. He is also the author of De Niro’s Game and Cockroach.
// 07.06.2010

“Unveiling the Veil” in Photos
The camera has turned on Photographer Laura El-Tantawy as she finds herself in the spotlight of Visura Magazine. Her latest gallery, “Unveiling the Veil” is a work in progress. The photos will transport you to a place “dominated by mystery and dreams,” as El-Tantawy puts it… // 06.30.2010
Noor Theatre Launches
Congratulations to the founders of Noor Theatre, Artistic Director Lameece Issaq, Executive Director Maha Chehlaoui and Producing Artistic Director Nancy Vitale, on the recent launch of their organization. Noor Theatre is dedicated to supporting, developing and presenting the work of theatre artists of Middle Eastern descent and aims to create exceptional work that transcends cultural boundaries and speaks to all people. For more on the organization and to support this amazing initiative, visit noortheatre.org >> // 06.24.2010






