ZOUKAK SIDEWALKS THE FESTIVAL
In 2016, Zoukak Sidewalks – The Festival was established as a biennial meeting point for artistic exchange and intercultural reflection, hosted at Zoukak Theatre and various venues across Beirut. The festival brings together international and local artists from diverse backgrounds and disciplines, featuring theatre, music, and dance performances, film screenings, public conversations, masterclasses, and presentations of works in progress.
Since its inception, four editions of the festival have taken place. However, the latest edition, scheduled for 2024, was cancelled due to the Israeli war on Lebanon. Over the years, the festival has showcased an array of esteemed artists and companies, including Milo Rau, Stanislas Nordey, DuZieu, Third Angel, Chris Thorpe, Suite42, and Thomas Ostermeier, among others.
6
Editions
215+ events
including performances, concerts, workshops, etc
PREVIOUS EDITIONs
ZOUKAK SIDEWALKS - THE PLATFORM
Established in 2013, Zoukak Sidewalks began as a dynamic platform, providing a shared space for international artists, local practitioners, students, and engaged audiences. Through a year-round program of artist talks, workshops, and performances, Zoukak Sidewalks fosteres dialogue on performance practices, offering deeper insights into the creative processes and philosophies of accomplished artists and companies. The initiative has introduced the work of major artists, such as Peter Sellars, while also generating momentum for new and unexpected collaborations between artists.
Over the course of two years, each month, an individual practitioner or company was invited for a residency at Zoukak’s studio to share their artistic practice. This engagement included showcasing works in progress, performing completed pieces—whether solo performances, group productions, or play readings—opening up practical work processes through workshops and masterclasses, and engaging audiences through talks and informal discussions.
Focus Liban
Launched in 2015 in partnership with the French Institute, Focus Liban is a platform dedicated to supporting the presentation and dissemination of work by local performing artists residing in Lebanon. Since then, the platform has been integrated into Zoukak Sidewalks – The Festival, with a dedicated program showcasing the work of local artists alongside international guests.
As a direct result of this initiative, numerous Lebanese artists have had the opportunity to present their work at prestigious festivals across Europe, expanding the reach and recognition of Lebanon’s vibrant performing arts scene.
