Tripoli’s “Ampere Cinema” Set To Reopen After 28 Year Absence
After nearly three decades of neglect and closed doors, Tripoli’s beloved “Ampere Cinema” is set to reopen this summer, bringing a much-needed cultural venue to the northern city.
In order to kick off the reopening with a bang, “The Association for Arts” and “Istanbouli Theatre” have announced the launch of the first edition of the “Tripoli International Theater Festival”.
The festival is set to take place from August 27th until 30th, and it’s purpose is to “establish an international theatrical movement and festival in Tripoli” says actor and director Kassem Istanbouli, who is the founder of the Lebanese National Theater.
An actor and director, Istanbouli has been working tirelessly alongside Tiro Association for Arts to revive the theater scene in Lebanon by reopening abandoned theaters across the country. After successfully bringing the Rivoli Cinema in Tyre and Stars Cinema in Nabatiyeh back to life back in 2016 and 2018 respectively, he now has his eyes set on Tripoli.
Many young artists and volunteers led the rehabilitations of these prized theaters in a bid to create accessible and independent cultural spaces in Lebanon which will serve as platforms for artists and networks with international festivals, allowing young directors the opportunity to present their art.
In Tripoli, the first Faculty of Arts in Lebanon was established, and the city became known as the city of cinemas, with over 35 cinemas in the area. It is a dream to bring it back to its former glory and reconnect it with artists in Lebanon and across the world.
Check out this wonderful video by Istanbouli Theater:
Submissions for participation from Lebanon and abroad are now being accepted until July 10th. Young artists and directors, don’t miss out on this amazing opportunity to bring back Lebanon’s glorious theater days.
