REEF Encounters in Hammana
In Spring 2023, a two-day extension of the Encounters was held in May at Hammana Artist House (Mount Lebanon Governorate), featuring hikes, film screenings and a panel discussion on the challenges of cultural development in rural areas.
The Rural & Cultural Network bringing together over 30 cultural entities from across Lebanon was launched at this occasion.
REEF Encounters 5th edition in Kobayat
Nearly 6,000 people from Akkar and across Lebanon participated in REEF Encounters in Kobayat, held from August 31 to September 4. Centered around the theme of Transformations and symbolized by the turtle as its mascot, the festival’s fifth edition offered a dynamic lineup of innovative activities.
A key highlight of this edition was the collaboration with REEF’s partner, Collectif Kahraba, which presented three performances tailored to the festival’s theme, Transformations. Among them, Géologie d’une fable (Geology of a Fable) enchanted spectators with a mesmerizing nighttime tale. The concept of an artistic stroll through the forest was adapted for REEF. In the scenic Helsban Valley, attendees experienced seven performances—including opera, mythological storytelling, theater, live music, contemporary dance, and even an acrobatic show in the trees. Meanwhile, in Andket village, the clown Vol Terre brought joy to the residents of a retirement home.
A record number of 29 international films were screened. Fashion also took center stage with Rytta Couture’s upcycled fashion show, Rouh (Soul). The designer showcased her unique creations, modeled by locals from nearby villages.
Women’s artistic expression was another highlight. Hosted by The Knowledge Workshop in collaboration with BAHH, a workshop themed Nabh el Banat (The Girls’ Spring) gave women from different Akkar villages the opportunity to express themselves through creative writing, movement, and song. Additionally, the audience enjoyed one-minute films created by Akkar women as part of a workshop led by Egyptian filmmaker Amal Ramsis, now in its second year.
The Encounters also fostered crucial discussions through a series of conferences. Transformations and Development Opportunities in Akkar, organized by the Legal Agenda Association, examined regional growth prospects. “Food Sovereignty, Now!”, hosted by Rosa Luxemburg Stiftung – Beirut Office, sparked vital conversations in Kobayat and Hermel. Meanwhile, “What’s Left of Ecology and Economy?”, led by The Knowledge Workshop, tackled pressing environmental concerns, including soil and spring pollution, peasant farming, and sustainable development strategies for Akkar.
A major new initiative in 2023 was the Ambassador Program, which provided 12 teenagers with a unique five-day immersive training experience. Their schedule combined environmental awareness sessions, fun activities, and introductions to film criticism and journalistic interview skills they could put into practice throughout the Encounters.
The festival concluded with the award ceremony for short and medium-length films screened during the Encounters.
REEF Encounters extension in Hermel
The Orontes River (El-Assi) was the focal point of the first edition of REEF in Hermel, held from September 8 to 10. Long overexploited for local recreation and tourism, the Orontes has suffered from severe pollution.
Festival highlights in Hermel included:
The Hermel Cultural Association organized a conference-debate in collaboration with Legal Agenda, focusing on the challenges of preserving the Orontes. Local experts discussed the threats to this vital resource and possible solutions. Additionally, Rosa Luxemburg Stiftung—Beirut Office hosted a discussion and screening on food sovereignty.
Two mornings of outdoor activities: one around the Orontes, integrating rafting and hiking, and another in the heights of Hermel, the jird, where participants explored the region’s natural riches and the threats they face.
Screenings of Arab and international films, along with one-minute films created by the women of Hermel.
A creative animation film workshop for young participants with short films that were screened to the local audience.
A concert featuring musician and oud player Hussein Khalil alongside talented artists from Hermel.
