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Hamra’s Golden Days Return: The Iconic “Le Colisée Cinema” Is Reopening!
Theater and film fans, Hamra’s golden days are back with the revival of the iconic “Le Colisée Cinema”!
After a long wait, Le Colisée Cinema is reopening its doors on September 13, 2025. One of the city’s oldest cinemas, it is being brought back to life thanks to the efforts of actor-director Kassem Istanbouli and the Tiro Association for Arts (TAA), a group dedicated to Lebanese arts and cultural heritage.
The Restoration of Le Colisée
The restoration goes far beyond just fixing up the walls and seats, as it aims to revive culture and art in Beirut. The cinema will now be part of the Lebanese National Theater, transforming into a free cultural space hosting training workshops, film screenings, festivals, and diverse artistic performances.
To celebrate, the Lebanon International Theater Festival will take place at Le Colisée from September 13 until September 16. The reopening will feature plays, films, and creative workshops designed to breathe new life into the cinema.
Previous Projects
Istanbouli explained the project builds on a dream he started seven years ago with Tyre’s Lebanese National Theater. Le Colisée is part of a broader vision to foster cultural connections between the north, the south, and Beirut.
TAA has previously led successful restorations and projects, including Al Hamra and Stars Cinema in Nabatieh, the Rivoli Cinema in Tyre transformed into the city’s national theater, and the Ampere Cinema in Tripoli.
Their work has empowered young creatives across Lebanon and strengthened the country’s cinematic and theatrical heritage.
With Le Colisée reopening, audiences can now enjoy a unique cinematic and theatrical experience. This includes access to diverse performances, inspiring workshops, and a renewed hub of art and creativity in Hamra.
Le Colisée is ready to reclaim its place at the center of the city’s cultural life!
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Beirut.com printed logo on the left side. Available in Black, White, and Olive Green.
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