Mayyas Pays Tribute to South Lebanon in Touching Performance

All-female dance group Mayyas stunned crowds with a touching tribute to South Lebanon during their performance last night on August 1, 2024 at Beirut Waterfront.

The winners of America’s Got Talent Season 17 breathed life into the stage. The beautifully choreographed 80-minute routine by Nadim Cherfan celebrated Lebanese culture and heritage. Unlike their usual mythological and fantastical performances, this routine featured a “realistic” representation of the daily lives of Lebanese people.

A segment of their routine featured a tribute to South Lebanon. ‘Ana Al-Janoub’ (I am the South) appeared on the stage video wall with a cloud of smoke and flying embers. The theatrical dance spectacle mesmerized the crowd as an interpretive dance unfolded alongside a dialogue between two dancers, one representing Beirut and the other representing the South.

Loosely translated, the conversation had beautiful lines like: “wajhan li wajh maa el aada’, kay adfaa aanki al bala’, Beirut la takhda’ee, ina fouadouki ta7meeki el adloh” (facing off with our enemies to keep you safe from harm, Beirut do not succumb, your heart is protected by ribs) ending to say, “nahnou al hijar wa anti almaas” (we are the stones and you are the diamond).

The decision to use a singular voice for the dialogue and the same outfits for the dancers underscores the oneness of the country. This brilliant creative decision elevated the performance.

This was Mayyas’s first ever performance in Beirut following their worldwide success. We’re excited for what else they have in store! We hope to see more of their talents taking over regional and international stages.

If you want to catch any future performances, make sure to follow their Instagram.