Efforts are underway to restore the historic Le Colisée Cinema in Beirut, transforming it into the Lebanese National Theater in Beirut.
This initiative, led by the Tiro Association for Arts and Istanbouli Theater, aims to create an independent and free cultural space where artistic performances, festivals, and training workshops will be held. The venue will also include a public library and an artistic café, reinforcing Beirut’s role as a center for artistic expression.
The project builds on previous successful restorations of closed cinemas across Lebanon, reviving them as community-focused cultural spaces. Actor and director Kassem Istanbouli, founder of the Lebanese National Theater, emphasized the initiative’s mission to connect Lebanon’s regions through the arts.
“The goal of the project is to establish a link between the south, the north, and Beirut, as it is a complement to our dream, which began with the establishment of the Lebanese National Theater in Tyre seven years ago, which is the first free theater and cinema in Lebanon. Thanks to the efforts of young volunteers, we will achieve our dream that art is a right for all, break the virtual wall between the Lebanese regions through the arts, and link them together through cultural spaces,” Istanbouli stated.
Reflecting on Beirut’s cinematic heritage, he added, “We are happy to live this dream in Beirut, which is considered the second-most cinematic city in the history of Lebanon. About 29 halls were located in Al-Burj Square and 16 halls in the Hamra area. That’s where many theatres were founded and witnessed by the most important playwrights in Lebanon and the world.”
The Tiro Association for Arts (TAA), a volunteer-driven organization, has played a key role in reviving Lebanon’s artistic spaces. It has previously renovated Al Hamra and Stars Cinema in Nabatieh, Rivoli Cinema in Tyre—now the Lebanese National Theater—and Empire Cinema in Tripoli, converting them into cultural and performance centers. TAA also organizes film screenings, art exhibitions, and training programs, including initiatives for children, youth, and people with disabilities.
Through partnerships with international festivals, TAA provides a platform for emerging filmmakers while promoting cultural exchange. The association has also spearheaded major artistic events, including the Lebanese International Theater Festival, the Tripoli International Theater Festival, the Tyre International Music Festival, and the Tiro International Arts Festival, among others.
With the rehabilitation of Le Colisée Cinema, Beirut is set to regain one of its historic artistic landmarks, reinforcing Lebanon’s commitment to preserving cultural heritage and expanding access to the arts.
