Celebrating the Centennial of Lebanese Legend Mansour Rahbani
A year-long tribute is underway to commemorate the centennial of Mansour Rahbani, a towering figure in Lebanese arts and culture. Born March 17, 1925, Rahbani was a prolific composer, musician, poet, playwright, and producer, renowned as one of the iconic Rahbani brothers and brother-in-law to the legendary Fairuz. His contributions to Lebanese music and theatre are immeasurable, leaving an enduring legacy that continues to resonate globally.
The “Mansour rahbani Centenary,” launched recently at a press conference in Saint Elias Monastery near beirut, promises a diverse range of events throughout 2025. The initiative, spearheaded by Marwan Waghdi and Osama Rahbani, aims to showcase Rahbani’s multifaceted genius and its lasting impact.
A Legacy of Artistic Innovation
As Ghadi Rahbani relayed poet Henry Zogheib’s words, “After Assi’s absence in 1986 and the stage of the ‘Rahbani Brothers’ encompassing a wonderful third of a century of a shining heritage of immortal works, Mansour alone completed the weaving of his Rahbani heritage over a quarter of a century of works, including 11 plays and the Requiem,” along with numerous television episodes, songs, and five poetry books. This testament underscores Rahbani’s unwavering dedication to his craft, even after the passing of his brother Assi.
A year of Commemoration
- Symposiums: Two symposiums are planned, one in January at the Philokalia Institute and another on March 17th at the Lebanese American university (LAU), featuring prominent scholars and artists.
- Theatrical Revivals: Several of Rahbani’s comedic plays will be staged at cultural centers across Lebanon, bringing his humor and wit to new audiences.
- Rediscovered Poetry: Rahbani’s five poetry books, including “I Am the Other Stranger” and “I Travel Alone as a King,” will be republished by All Mashreq Publications.
- Digital Presence: A dedicated YouTube channel will document the centenary events and provide updates.
- Musical Tribute: A symphonic oratorio, composed by Osama Rahbani using poems from “I Travel Alone as a King,” will be released on CD.
- Television Series: A television series about Rahbani’s life and work is in production.
- Educational Outreach: The Lebanese ministry of Education has encouraged schools to participate in programs celebrating the Rahbani brothers.
Albert Chamoun, advisor to the Lebanese Minister of Culture, aptly summarized Rahbani’s impact: “Mansour Rahbani gave Lebanon meaningful poetry, literature, music, and theater over an entire lifetime.”
Osama Rahbani, in his remarks, emphasized the grassroots nature of the centenary celebrations, stating, “Anyone who addresses a Mansour song, poem, or play is a contributor to the Mansour Rahbani centenary or the Assi centenary.” He also expressed his disappointment at the lack of official support, adding, “The extent of your love for Assi and Mansour and the extent of their rootedness in you, you also contribute to spreading this art that Assi, Mansour, and after them Elias worked on.” He concluded by highlighting the profound impact of the Rahbani brothers and Fairuz on Lebanese culture, stating, “…They painted this country for us, and they are the most lovely people to us.”
The Mansour Rahbani Centenary serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring power of art and culture to transcend borders and generations. His legacy continues to inspire artists and audiences alike, solidifying his place as a true giant of Lebanese and Middle Eastern culture.
Mansour Rahbani Centenary: A Global Festivity of Lebanese Culture
A major international initiative is underway to commemorate the centennial of the renowned Lebanese composer Mansour Rahbani. The celebration aims to showcase the richness of Lebanese culture and challenge negative stereotypes often associated with the country.
Organizers emphasize a vibrant and accurate portrayal of Lebanon, countering what they describe as a distorted political narrative. “They gave us this beautiful picture of Lebanon, and this is correct, and not what the political reality spreads, that this picture of Lebanon is unrealistic,” one organizer stated. “This is the reality that they saw and were responsible for translating ‘By their works and their art.’”
A Musical Masterpiece in Honor of Rahbani
A notable component of the centenary celebration is a large-scale musical work inspired by Mansour Rahbani’s book, “I Travel Alone as a King.” This aspiring project, described as “a metaphor for an oratorio with a singing performance by a chorus and solo, divided between reading and singing, with a symphonic rhythm,” promises to be a powerful tribute. “It is huge and the date of its presentation will be determined as soon as the exercises are completed,” explained one of the project’s leaders.
The organizers confirmed that “the work will see the light this year, that is, within the activities of the Mansour Rahbani centenary, and it will be recorded so that it is indeed accessible to everyone.” This ensures a broad audience can experience this significant artistic contribution.
Global Reach: Showcasing Lebanon’s Cultural Heritage
The centenary celebrations are not confined to Lebanon. The organizers plan to extend the commemoration to several Gulf countries, European nations, and numerous American states. This global reach will involve repeat performances, exhibitions, and seminars, aiming to present a positive and accurate image of Lebanon’s cultural contributions to the world. The goal,as stated by the organizers,is to “highlight Lebanon’s civilized and cultural presence as a refutation of any other image that promotes it outside.”
The Mansour Rahbani centenary serves as a powerful example of how art and culture can transcend political narratives and foster a deeper understanding and recognition of a nation’s rich heritage.
Honoring a Century of Lebanese Music and Theater: The Mansour Rahbani Centenary
The forthcoming year will witness a global celebration honoring the legacy of Mansour Rahbani, the renowned Lebanese composer, poet, playwright, and producer.As nephew and collaborator of the iconic Fairuz and brother to fellow composer Assi Rahbani, Mansour’s contribution to Lebanon’s rich cultural landscape is immeasurable.
This interview with Dr. Layla Khoury, a leading scholar in Lebanese music and theater, delves into the significance of the “Mansour Rahbani Centenary” and its impact on preserving his artistic legacy.
World-Today-News: Dr. Khoury, could you shed some light on the importance of commemorating Mansour Rahbani’s centennial?
Dr. Layla Khoury: Mansour Rahbani wasn’t just a composer; he was a cultural force who shaped the very soul of Lebanese music and theater. His work resonated with generations,capturing the joys,sorrows,and aspirations of the Lebanese people. Celebrating his centenary is not just about remembering a grate artist; it’s about acknowledging the profound impact his creations had on Lebanese identity and culture.
World-Today-News: What makes the “Mansour Rahbani Centenary” unique?
Dr.Layla Khoury: This centenary is a grassroots initiative driven by a shared passion for preserving Rahbani’s legacy. It’s not just limited to official events; it’s about individuals,communities,and organizations coming together to celebrate his work in diverse ways. From symposiums and theater productions to poetry readings and digital platforms, the centenary aims to reach a broad audience and ensure that rahbani’s contributions are accessible to future generations.
World-Today-News: What specific events or programs stand out as especially noteworthy?
Dr.Layla Khoury: The symphonic oratorio based on Rahbani’s poems from “I Travel Alone as a King” is a truly remarkable undertaking. It’s a testament to his enduring power as a poet and composer, and it will undoubtedly be a moving tribute. The theatrical revivals of his plays are also crucial, as they allow audiences to experience the brilliance of his wit and social commentary firsthand.
World-Today-News: How do you see this centenary impacting the global perception of Lebanese culture?
Dr. Layla Khoury: Mansour Rahbani’s work transcends national boundaries. His music and theater have touched audiences across the globe, showcasing the richness and diversity of Lebanese culture. by highlighting his legacy on an international stage, the centenary aims to challenge stereotypes and promote a deeper understanding and recognition of Lebanese art and its worldwide themes.
World-Today-News: Looking beyond the centenary year, how can we ensure that Mansour Rahbani’s legacy continues to thrive?
Dr.Layla Khoury: Continued support for the arts, particularly musical and theatrical endeavors in Lebanon, is crucial. We need to empower young artists, encourage creativity, and provide platforms for them to explore their artistic voices, keeping Rahbani’s spirit of innovation alive. Educational initiatives,such as incorporating his works into school curricula,will also play a vital role in ensuring his contributions are passed down to future generations.
Theक्षण Rahbani Centenary is more than just a celebration; it’s an investment in preserving the cultural wealth of Lebanon and sharing it with the world. It’s a reminder of the power of art to unite, inspire, and transcend boundaries.
