Protests Unfold Outside Awkword Comedy Show in Tripoli

Lebanon’s popular stand-up comedy show, Awkword, took the stage in Tripoli before protests broke out outside the venue, trapping the performers, organizers, and audience members inside.

The show, known to tackle topics of Lebanese politics and sectarianism with sharp humor, faced a tense standoff as locals gathered outside the venue in protest. According to comedian Nour El Hajjar, a familiar face at Awkword comedy shows, the protests took place after one of their shows was cancelled in Saida.

Allegedly, the protest in Tripoli was sparked by circulating rumors that comedians Nour Hajjar and Shaden Fakih would be performing. Both are known for addressing taboo topics and criticizing political and religious structures in Lebanon.

Though neither comedian appeared on stage that night, misleading and inflammatory calls had been circulating in the days leading up to the event.

Following the end of the first show, protestors gathered outside the venue. They chanted slogans calling for the shutdown of cultural events under the pretext of protecting “public morals.”

The second show was ultimately canceled. Security forces arrived at the scene to safely escort the performers and attendees out of the theater.

The incident has sparked a wave of reactions online. Supporters of the show have called it a stark example of how fragile freedom of expression remains in Lebanon. Others, however, argued that public performances must be mindful of local sensitivities.

Awkword has not issued an official statement. The incident has reignited broader debates around censorship, especially surrounding the comedy scene in Lebanon.

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