NNA - On the occasion of World Music Day, the Gemmayzeh Development Association organized a musical evening on Friday, June 20, 2025, in the heart of Gouraud Street, at the entrance of the Mar Nicolas Stairs. The event took place in an exceptional musical atmosphere that evoked a rich artistic memory and a longing for the refined arts that have long characterized this annual celebration in Gemmayzeh, without overlooking the touch of Lebanese and traditional musical ambiance.
The event was attended by several official figures, including the spouse of the Prime Minister, former ambassador Sahar Baassiri; Ministers of State: Minister of Economy and Trade Dr. Amer Bassat, and Minister of Social Affairs Haneen El-Sayyed. Also in attendance were members of parliament: former Deputy Prime Minister Ghassan Hasbani, Nadim Gemayel, Jihad Pakradouni, and Nicolas Sehnaoui, as well as former ministers and MPs Michel Pharaon and Richard Kouyoumjian, and the Governor of Beirut, Judge Marwan Abboud. Also present were Hind Darwish, Director of the Office of the Prime Minister and Lebanon’s Ambassador to UNESCO, along with Ragheb Haddad, Deputy President of the Municipal Council, members of the Beirut Municipal Council, religious and civil figures, and a large crowd of Gemmayzeh residents and visitors.
The evening opened with a short documentary about the history of Gemmayzeh, featuring images that bridged the past and present.
Afterward, the artistic program was inaugurated by tenor Marc Reaidy with a captivating operatic performance.
The official opening began with the Lebanese national anthem, followed by a welcoming speech from the Association’s president, Mr. Toufic Tasso. He emphasized the importance of perseverance despite challenges and reaffirmed the Association’s commitment to its cultural and developmental mission in Gemmayzeh, which has lasted for more than thirty years. He highlighted the Association’s ongoing efforts to improve the neighborhood’s infrastructure and public services in cooperation with local authorities. He also pointed out that the Association’s role goes beyond organizing events to include preserving Gemmayzeh’s heritage, maintaining a healthy environment for residents, and addressing traffic and parking issues. He highlighted that the Association’s vision is to blend tradition with modernity, keeping Gemmayzeh a vibrant neighborhood that reflects Beirut’s cultural spirit and combines economic growth with quality urban life.
Then, Dr. May Chidiac, Vice President of the Association and former Minister, delivered an emotional speech recalling her childhood memories in Gemmayzeh. She praised the resilience of the community, which overcame difficulties through a strong love of life. She affirmed that Gemmayzeh “will never die because it is the beating heart of Beirut,” noting that it always recovers, especially after the August 4 disaster. She highlighted the importance of hope and love of life, wishing Lebanon peace and its people reassurance. She also mentioned that while the neighborhood has changed significantly, it has kept its identity and, thanks to the efforts of the Association and residents, has returned as a center of artistic life in Beirut.
Afterwards, Judge Marwan Abboud, Governor of Beirut, gave an improvised speech expressing his deep affection for Gemmayzeh Street, which he described as the embodiment of Beirut’s culture and spirit. He said that when asked about Beirut, he answers that Beirut is found in Gemmayzeh Street. He expressed concern, especially after the Beirut port explosion, about the possibility of demolishing the old houses on the street and replacing them with modern buildings that erase its cultural heritage. He reaffirmed his firm stance by saying, “I would cut off my hand before approving the demolition of any building on this street.” He added that every time he passes by this street, his heart grows fuller just by being there. He also pledged to the residents of Beirut and Gemmayzeh Street that he would work on repairing the road and fixing the potholes, explaining that the project requires funding and that he is following up on all necessary communications. He expressed hope that the work would begin within two to three weeks.
Following the opening speeches, the artist Micha and her band continued the musical program with a diverse selection of international music, alongside lively Lebanese songs. The evening concluded with a performance by the artist Rabih Salameh, who delivered a set of traditional Lebanese Oriental songs that captivated the audience until midnight.
Through this event, the Gemmayzeh Development Association reaffirmed its commitment to revitalizing the cultural and artistic role of Gemmayzeh, preserving its living heritage as a vibrant urban space worthy of Beirut’s most beautiful face, and expressing the Lebanese people’s determination for renewal and revival despite all challenges.
