Beirut physical lab

What an unforgettable performance presented by the Italian Cultural Institute and Beirut Physical Lab!

“Graces” hit the stage on July 9th at Madina Theater, a full room, mesmerizing the audience with an interactive dance by renowned Italian choreographer Silvia Gribaudi and talented performers Andrea Rampazzo, Giacomo Citton, and Matteo Marchesi.
Seamlessly discussing important gender and body issues, it is with grace, humor, and a magnetic presence that these artists took over the stage and the Beiruti audience.
Big thanks to everyone who helped bring this performance to Beirut.

Special thanks to and .official



Photo credits:

We're opening a 3-hour workshop with Silvia Gribaudi on Saturday!
At Koon Theater, 10AM till 1PM
DM us or contact +96170004760 to reserve.

Sylvia Gribaudi's works are characterized by light-heartedness, irony, and freedom. The workshop offers an exploration of the poetic dimension that Sylvia Gribaudi explores, emphasizing the vivacity and presence of the body. Participants will engage in a journey where humor and play are integrated into bodily expression and gesture. The workshop will delve into the concept of the vital body, encouraging participants to embrace the value of imperfection and mistakes as avenues for creative expression.

See you there!

It’s almost here! Have you reserved yet?

The Italian Cultural Institute & Beirut Physical Lab in Collaboration with , are proud to present renowned Italian choreographer Silvia Gribaudi performing her piece “Graces” on July 9th.
Reserve via ihjoz ( bio ) or contact +961 70 004 760

This humorous contemporary dance performance features dancers Silvia Gribaudi Giacomo Citton , Matteo Marchesi , and Andrea Rampazzo

“Graces,” inspired by Antonio Canova’s sculpture The Three Graces (1812-1817), explores the convergence of male and female energies through dance and theater. Silvia Gribaudi, celebrated for her humorous and empathetic portrayal of imperfections, challenges gender stereotypes and celebrates human complexity. The performance offers new interpretations of grace, blending dance, theater, and social commentary.

Winner of Danza&Danza 2019 award ‘italian production of the year’
Winning Project of the action CollaborAction #4 2018/2019
Selected by NID Platform 2019
Finalist Rete Critica 2019 award (Italy)

The performance will happen on Tuesday, July 9th, at 9 pm at Al Madina Theatre. Doors open 8:40pm.

We thank Collectif Kahraba for their support
& .official for their collaboration

The Italian Cultural Institute & Beirut Physical Lab in Collaboration with Cultural Zoo , are proud to present renowned Italian choreographer Silvia Gribaudi performing her piece "Graces" on July 9th.
Reserve via ihjoz ( https://ihjoz.com/events/7946 ) or contact +961 70 390 608/ +961 70 004 760

This humorous contemporary dance performance features dancers Silvia Gribaudi Giacomo Citton , Matteo Marchesi , and Andrea Rampazzo

"Graces," inspired by Antonio Canova's sculpture The Three Graces (1812-1817), explores the convergence of male and female energies through dance and theater. Silvia Gribaudi, celebrated for her humorous and empathetic portrayal of imperfections, challenges gender stereotypes and celebrates human complexity. The performance offers new interpretations of grace, blending dance, theater, and social commentary.

Under the critical direction and visual support of Matteo Maffesanti, alongside Silvia Gribaudi, the project has integrated workshops within local communities to explore choreographic themes. This collaboration navigates the intersection of art and daily life, encouraging audiences to reconsider notions of beauty and virtue in a playful and insightful manner.

Winner of Danza&Danza 2019 award ‘italian production of the year’
Winning Project of the action CollaborAction #4 2018/2019
Selected by NID Platform 2019
Finalist Rete Critica 2019 award (Italy)

The performance will happen on Tuesday, July 9th, at 9 pm at Al Madina Theatre

We thank Collectif Kahraba for their support
& for their collaboration

Beirut Physical Lab and the Italian Cultural Institute In Collaboration with ZEBRA Production present a contemporary dance workshop with Silvia Gribaudi.

Sylvia Gribaudi's works are characterized by light-heartedness, irony, and freedom. The workshop offers an exploration of the poetic dimension that Sylvia Gribaudi explores, emphasizing the vivacity and presence of the body. Participants will engage in a journey where humor and play are integrated into bodily expression and gesture. The workshop will delve into the concept of the vital body, encouraging participants to embrace the value of imperfection and mistakes as avenues for creative expression.

Key Themes:
Revitalizing physicality through self-irony and dance dynamics
Exploring how dance influences body perception within a playful environment

Morning Classes: Open to the public from 10 AM to 11:15 Am
Contact us: [email protected]. Phone: +961 70390608, +961 70 004 760.

Full Workshop: Dancers from the BPL community will be selected to participate in this comprehensive training program, enhancing their professional and technical performance skills. The workshop will run from 10 AM to 3 PM, starting from the 8th to the 12th of July.

APPLY THROUGH OUR BIO

Dates? 8th, 9th, 10th, 11th, 12th & 13th (Public showing) of July. Time: 10AM - 3PM (every day except for Tuesday the 9th/ 10am -12pm & 13th)
Where? Koon Theater, Tayouneh next to Sunflower Theater
Fees? Details in the bio

About Silvia

Silvia Gribaudi, an Italian choreographer, specializes in the performing arts. Since 2004, she has dedicated her research to exploring the social impact of bodies, focusing on integrating the comic element and enhancing the relationship between the audience and performers.
Silvia's performances have been showcased at various national and international festivals. Her creative process emphasizes collaborative dialogue and poetic interactions with fellow artists, dance companies, and communities.
Istituto Italiano di Cultura di Beirut

Beirut Physical Lab and the Italian Cultural Institute In Collaboration with ZEBRA Production present a contemporary dance workshop with Silvia Gribaudi.

Sylvia Gribaudi's works are characterized by light-heartedness, irony, and freedom. The workshop offers an exploration of the poetic dimension that Sylvia Gribaudi explores, emphasizing the vivacity and presence of the body. Participants will engage in a journey where humor and play are integrated into bodily expression and gesture. The workshop will delve into the concept of the vital body, encouraging participants to embrace the value of imperfection and mistakes as avenues for creative expression.

Key Themes:
Revitalizing physicality through self-irony and dance dynamics
Exploring how dance influences body perception within a playful environment

Morning Classes: Open to the public from 10 AM to 11:15 AM

Full Workshop: Dancers from the BPL community will be selected to participate in this comprehensive training program, enhancing their professional and technical performance skills. The workshop will run from 10 AM to 3 PM, starting from the 8th to the 12th of July.

APPLY THROUGH OUR BIO

Dates? 8th, 9th, 10th, 11th, 12th & 13th (Public showing) of July. Time: 10AM - 3PM (every day except for Tuesday the 9th/ 10am -12pm & 13th)
Where? Koon Theater, Tayouneh next to Sunflower Theater
Fees? Details in the bio

About Silvia

Silvia Gribaudi, an Italian choreographer, specializes in the performing arts. Since 2004, she has dedicated her research to exploring the social impact of bodies, focusing on integrating the comic element and enhancing the relationship between the audience and performers.
Silvia's performances have been showcased at various national and international festivals. Her creative process emphasizes collaborative dialogue and poetic interactions with fellow artists, dance companies, and communities.
Istituto Italiano di Cultura di Beirut

Join us weekly in our contemporary dance classes with Bassam Abou Diab & Samer Zaher at Amalgam Studio, Hamra.

In these weekly dance class, we will provide a holistic approach to dance education. From understanding the body's anatomy to harnessing energy and exploring improvisation, participants will gain valuable knowledge and skills. The class aims to empower students to connect, listen, and understand their bodies while utilizing their breath, endurance, and energy to create meaningful and expressive dance experiences. We will go through improvisation & floor-work techniques, choreography, some contact, and of course stretch while having fun!

Fees? 10$ per class or 30$ per month for once a week, 40$ for twice per week & 50$ per month for the full package!
50% off for Lebanese University students in Theater

Who is Bassam?
From actor to internationally acclaimed choreographer, Bassam (founder of Beirut Physical Lab) transitioned to contemporary dance, touring his works globally. His background blends traditional dance with contemporary forms, influenced by research on Arabic rituals and physical theater.

Who is Samer? Sam Z
Samer Zaher, is a versatile dancer with expertise in a variety of dance forms, he has continuously refined his skills, utilizing his body as a medium for self-expression. Collaborating with international choreographers, he explored diverse techniques showcased in performances like "Imprints" and "Cabaret Migrant." Samer's theatrical experience extends to various groups and directors, complemented by his physiotherapy background from BAU, enhancing his comprehension of the human body.

See you then!

Throwback to the 5-day Open-level intensive with Dorian Chavez. The 5 days focused on flying low & improvisation techniques. It culminated with an open showing at the end – a manifestation of the movement research undertaken throughout the week.

We are happy to announce that our performance "Tanween", a dance performance by Beirut Physical Lab, is happening during the BIPOD festival.

When: at 7h30 PM; Saturday, April 20.

Where: Union Marks, Burj Hammoud.

Two creatures are born in a crowded, unstable, and violent city, finding their ways to adapt and survive in this confined physical space. The performance leads the audience through a journey of battles, dialogues, debates, and disturbances between these two creatures, struggling between controlling and connecting with the other. How does the city affect their body, mind, and interpersonal relationships? What do they compromise to be able to stay.

Production: Beirut Physical Lab.
Choreographer: Bassam Abou Diab.
Performers: Andrea Fahed and Samer Zaher
Live Music: Andy Khouloussy.

Book here:
https://www.bipodfestival.com/full-programme/bassam-abou-diab (link in bio)

Poster by Leen ElMobaddr

Our annual program "BeiRoot Bodies" culminated in the open dance performance "Beirut Bodies - 3" at Beryte Theater, USJ.

Twelve emerging artists: Joanna Eid, Rhea Saad, Leen ElMobaddr, Lea Jawad, Rita Sayah, Roy Farhat, Catherine Harb, Ban Majed, Nour Malak, Christoph Habr, Pamela Hayek & Celine Haddad, presented their work on April 12th & 13th. Over 270 attendees enjoyed the performances across the two days.

Production: Beirut Physical Lab
Artistic Director & Main Trainer: Bassam Abou Diab
Assistant Director & Project Manager: Andrea Fahed
Logistics Coordinator & Photography: Farah Hindawi
Guest trainers who provided valuable expertise: Aurelien Zouki, Osama Halal, Petra Serhal, Ruweida el Ghali, Hoor Malas, Dorian Chavez & Charlie Prince.

We appreciate the support of Institut français du Liban & Goethe-Institut Libanon Workshops and training sessions were held at Amalgam Studio and Koon Theater.

Looking ahead, we plan to further develop "Beirut Bodies" and present it again in Beirut. We're also committed to continuing our annual project with the fourth edition starting next year.

Photos by: Farah Hindawi

We are deeply grateful for the expertise and dedication of our Beiroot Bodies guest trainers in shaping this experience.

They've equipped us with valuable tools to:

Deepen Body Awareness: Charlie Prince guided us in actively listening to our bodies and navigating space with intention.
Master Floorwork: Hoor Malas has led us through intense floorwork sessions
Embrace Intuitive Improvisation: .Zouki ignited our creativity, teaching us to improvise from our intuition.
Explore Flying-Low Techniques: .chavez.338 introduced us to flying-low techniques while pushing our boundaries (safely!).

Don't miss the performance! Witness the culmination of our training this Friday 12th & Saturday 13th. Reserve your spot in the bio link!

Beiroot Bodies 3rd edition is supported by & Goethe-Institut Libanon

12 emerging artists are putting the body at the core of storytelling. Sharing with the audience their personal beliefs and the causes they fight for while living in Beirut. Through contemporary dance and physical theater, these artists will express their hardships and inspirations.

Each participant will perform a scene of their own creation weaved by choreographies from Beirut Physical Lab production.

“BeiRoot Bodies -3”

Location: Beryt Theater, USJ.

Date and Time: April 12th and 13th 2024. 8:30 pm

Ticket Price: 10$
Price for students: 5$
Donation Ticket: 20$

Book via whatsapp on 70 390 608 or 78 978 270
or https://ihjoz.com/events/7802 (link in bio)

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يضع ١٢ فناناً/ة صاعداً/ة، جسدهم لسرد قضايا ومعتقدات، يتمسكون بها، من أجل الاستمرار والبقاء في مدينة بيروت. من خلال الرقص المعاصر والمسرح الجسدي، سيعبر الفنانون/ات، عن معاناتهم/ن أو إلهامهم/ن، وذلك ضمن قطع فنية نسجها كل منهم.

«أجساد بيروت ٣»: عرض حركي مفتوح

على خشبة مسرح Beryt, USJ في بيروت.

Supported by



And special thanks to .beirut & Sunflower Theater for providing with spaces to train in

12 emerging artists are putting the body at the core of storytelling. Sharing with the audience their personal beliefs and the causes they fight for while living in Beirut. Through contemporary dance and physical theater, these artists will express their hardships and inspirations.

Each participant will perform a scene of their own creation weaved by choreographies from Beirut Physical Lab production.

“BeiRoot Bodies -3”

Location: Beryt Theater, USJ.

Date and Time: April 12th and 13th 2024. 8:30 pm

Ticket Price: 10$
Price for students: 5$
Donation Ticket: 20$

Book via whatsapp on 70626200 or 78 978 270
or https://ihjoz.com/events/7802 (link in bio)

‐---------------------------------------

يضع ١٢ فناناً/ة صاعداً/ة، جسدهم لسرد قضايا ومعتقدات، يتمسكون بها، من أجل الاستمرار والبقاء في مدينة بيروت. من خلال الرقص المعاصر والمسرح الجسدي، سيعبر الفنانون/ات، عن معاناتهم/ن أو إلهامهم/ن، وذلك ضمن قطع فنية نسجها كل منهم.

«أجساد بيروت ٣»: عرض حركي مفتوح

على خشبة مسرح Beryt, USJ في بيروت.

Support by
Institut français du Liban
Goethe-Institut Libanon

Special thanks to
Koon Theater
Amalgam
Sunflower - Douwar el Shams

Big thanks to Ruweida el Ghali for her training in Beirut Bodies 3!

Ruweida's insightful session had us focusing on:
Body awareness: Learning to listen to what our bodies are telling us
Breathing techniques: Mastering our breath for better control and focus
Pelvic connection: Exploring the importance of pelvic floor engagement
Somatic approaches: Delving into body-centered movement practices

Institut français du Liban
Goethe-Institut Libanon

All next week with

The training will focus on the exploration of deep listening and embodied resonance: of the self, the other, the group, and the environment.

We will bring to question the notions of physical experience, porosity, and sharing to create meeting points between virtuosity and somatic attention, renewing the infinite pleasure and power of dancing.
We will move through continual transformations of tactile and instinctive identities that are triggered by the expanding and transforming energetic glow that 'in-forms us': Opening up dialogue between internal and external functions of physicality, between the activation of deep fantasy and the encounter with material reality.

Charlie Prince is a Lebanese dance and performance artist. His focus is on the intersection of politics and poetry in the body. His transdisciplinary choreography and installations have featured in major festivals and theaters worldwide, including Impulstanz, SPRING Festival, and Vancouver International Dance Festival.

Beirut Bodies 3rd edition welcomed guest trainer Ossama Halal!

We explored the fundamentals of theater and the powerful tool of discomfort to push our movement practice further.

A huge thank you to Ossama Halal for sharing his knowledge!

Stay tuned as we reveal the performance dates!

Starting tomorrow, OPEN-LEVEL MORNING CLASSES with

The training will focus on the exploration of deep listening and embodied resonance: of the self, the other, the group, and the environment.

Charlie Prince is a Lebanese dance and performance artist. His focus is on the intersection of politics and poetry in the body. His transdisciplinary choreography and installations have featured in major festivals and theatres worldwide, including Impulstanz, SPRING Festival, and Vancouver International Dance Festival.

Fees? 10$ per class 60$ for 8 days. Special discount for bpl members and LU theater students.
Kindly reach out to us if you can't afford it and would like to join.

OPEN CALL: An enriching OPEN-LEVEL intensive training given by dancer, Charlie Prince.


The training will focus on the exploration of deep listening and embodied resonance: of the self, the other, the group, and the environment.
Through proposals that awaken the body's energetic and imaginative landscape, we will bring to question the notions of physical experience, porosity and sharing to create meeting points between virtuosity and somatic attention, renewing the infinite pleasure and power of dancing.
We will move through continual transformations of tactile and instinctive identities that are triggered by the expanding and transforming energetic glow that 'in-forms us': Opening up dialogue between internal and external functions of physicality, between the activation of deep fantasy and the encounter with material reality.

Charlie Prince is a Lebanese dance and performance artist, his focus is on the intersection of politics and poetry in the body. His transdisciplinary choreography and installations have featured in major festivals and theaters worldwide, including Impulstanz, SPRING Festival, and Vancouver International Dance Festival.

A McGill University graduate with a Bachelor of Music and a minor in Religious Studies, he also incorporates his composition skills into his art. He received the Boghossian Foundation Prize for Dance and Performance in 2018 and was an apap 2020 artist, supported by the European Union Commission for Culture from 2017-2020.

When? March 27th to 29th, APRIL 2nd to 6th, 10AM till 3PM. There will be morning classes as well from 10AM til 11:30pm.

Where? Koon Studio, Tayune

Fees? fees include a symbolic payment. We have a limited amount of free spots based on Charlie's selection.
For more details and how to apply, visit the link in our bio!

OPEN CALL TO ALL PERFORMERS! Don't miss out on this enriching 5-day intensive dance training with choreographer Hoor Malas
This project aims to provide training and performative experience to 8 emerging dancers (there will be a showing at the end!), offering an exploration of floor-work technique.

When? March 15th to 20th, 10AM till 3PM
Where? Koon Studio, Tayouneh

Apply here https://forms.gle/FW3nsNj9nkaBdNUd7

About the training:

Open-Level Morning Classes: It will concentrate on floor work technique and choreographic phrasing. The class will be two hours long and consist of warmup, floor work exercises, and dance phrases.

Creative Lab For Advanced Dancers:
Providing choreographic tools based on the artistic practice of the choreographer, creating a space where the dancers explore their own choreographic voices through tools like instant composition, improvisation, and more.

End of Training Showing: an informal showcase where the dancers share the result of the five-day training with the public with a Q&A at the end.

Hoor Malas is a Syrian dance and movement artist now residing in Montréal. She began her dance journey at the age of eight at the Ballet School in Damascus, later earning a B.A. in dance from the Higher Institute of Arts in Damascus and a diploma in contemporary dance from The Northern School of Contemporary Dance in Leeds, UK. Malas has enriched her expertise through numerous workshops across Europe and the UK. She co-founded Sima Dance Company (2006-2013) and has a decade of experience teaching contemporary dance at the Art Conservatory in Damascus. Her choreographic debut came in 2014-15, leading to the inception of the collective "Dust" with theater maker Mayar Alexan in 2018. Malas' choreographic works, such as “Regression”, “Three Seconds”, “Hanging”, “Dust”, and her solo piece “If my body had a name,” reflect her exploration of social issues through personal experience.

Learn Flying-low techniques through next week's morning classes with Dorian Chavez.
The Flying Low technique, developed by David Zambrano, emphasizes the dancer's connection with the floor through simple movement patterns that integrate breathing, speed, and the release of energy.

In these courses, we will explore the basic elements of flying low in presence, availability, and speed. With open attention, efficiency of gesture, and a high level of physicality we will be able to feel the center of gravity, strengthen the supports, and create a fluid and danced connection with the ground.

When? 4th till 8th of March 10-11:30 AM
Where? Amalgam Studio, Hamra
Fees? 10$ Drop-in or 40$ For the 5 days (50% Off for Lebanese University Students)

DM Us for reservations
beirut

DANCE INTENSIVE NEXT WEEK! Calling all movement lovers and dancers for a 5-day open-level intensive with Dorian Chavez. You will be learning the techniques of flying low and improvisation. The intensive will culminate in a small showing on the last day.

Apply through the link in our bio! Places are limited.

Flying Low Technique: This course covers the essentials of flying low, focusing on presence, speed, and open, efficient movements. We'll enhance our physicality, understand gravity, strengthen support, and create a fluid connection with the ground.

Improvisation Workshop: Through various exercises and improvisational tasks, participants will learn to create and understand movement, forms, and rhythms. With choreographic tools and personal notation, we aim to develop unique improvisational skills for composing spontaneous, meaningful dances.

About Dorian: Born in Quito, Ecuador, in 1985, Dorian is a dancer, performer, and director. He developed his unique approach to performance, theater, and choreography in South America before moving to Europe in 2014 to expand his work in writing and the performing arts.

Fees: 25$ per day / 100$ for 5 days
Location: Amalgam Studio, Hamra
Dates & time: from March 4th till 8th, 10AM till 3PM

Get ready for an intensive month full of contemporary action! We will be having 3 guest choreographers who will do workshops for the whole month. Save the dates! More details coming soon.

Sharing our journey so far with Beiroot Bodies 3rd Edition!
We started the program beginning of January and throughout we shared perspectives and reflections, learned so much about physical theater with and had intense core training sessions with ! During these challenging times, it is the sense of community that sustains us. Our collective spirit and this generation of young artists is what brings us hope for a brighter future.

NEW WEEKLY CONTEMPORARY DANCE CLASSES!
Join us every Wednesday for an open-level contemporary dance class with Sam Z
In this weekly dance class, we will provide a holistic approach to dance education. From understanding the body's anatomy to harnessing energy and exploring improvisation, participants will gain valuable knowledge and skills. The class aims to empower students to connect, listen, and understand their bodies while utilizing their breath, endurance, and energy to create meaningful and expressive dance experiences.

When? Every Wednesday at 5:30PM
Where? Amalgam, Studio Hamra
Fees? 10$ per class or 30$ per month

Who is Samer?
Samer Zaher, born and raised in Lebanon, is a versatile dancer with expertise in a variety of dance forms. Embarking on his dance journey at a young age, he has continuously refined his skills, utilizing his body as a medium for self-expression. As a seasoned Contemporary dancer, Samer actively engaged in workshops with "Hammana Artists House" and "Beirut Physical Lab," collaborating with choreographers and dancers from around the world, exploring diverse improvisation techniques and fundamentals. His participation in performances like "Imprints," "Alteration" (BPL), "ساهرون," and "Cabaret Migrant" (HAH) has showcased his international presence. Samer's theatrical experience extends to various groups and directors, complemented by his physiotherapy background from BAU, enhancing his comprehension of the human body. Choosing to flourish through dance, Samer dedicates time to nurture and advance the body's artistry.

See you then!

⚠️ MORNING CLASSES ALERT ⚠️
Join us every Saturday for an open contemporary/movement improvisation class with . This class is open to people of all ages and dance experiences. It will be fun!

When? Every Saturday 10-11:15AM
Where? Koon Studio, Tayouneh
Fees? 7$ Drop-in & 20$ Monthly

It was a pleasure to have Petra Serhal with us at the Beiroot Bodies -3- program in Koon Theater. Thank you for sharing insights on research, choreographic work, and guiding us on a holistic approach to performance.



Petra Serhal
Koon Theater

⚠️ MORNING CLASSES ALERT ⚠️
Join us every Saturday for an open contemporary/movement improvisation class with Bassam Abou Diab . This class is open to people of all ages and dance experience. It will be fun!

When? Every Saturday 10-11:15AM
Where? Koon Studio, Tayouneh Theater
Fees? 7$ Drop-in & 20$ Monthly

Our journey to build an improvisation 'toolbox' with Kim Baraka was filled with exploration. Throughout the workshop, we delved into key concepts, grounding our movement improvisation in the Forsythe Improvisation Technologies. From intention, gaze, and direction to mirroring and complementing, it was a fruitful masterclass that enhanced our connection with the present and our artistic tools. A special shoutout to visual artist Abouzeid , who dedicated 10 hours to sketching our movements!

A heartfelt thank you to Kim Baraka for generously sharing your knowledge, and immense gratitude to all the participants for infusing these two days with unforgettable energy and generosity. We cannot wait for the workshops yet to come!