Manoukian Captivates Ehden with Marathon Performance
Lebanese Star Ignites Ihdayat Festival with Historic Show
The Ihdayat International Festival 2025 kicked off with an electrifying performance by **Guy Manoukian**, transforming the Ehden theater into a pulsating hub of music and dance for an extended, unforgettable evening.
A Night of Unplanned Euphoria
What began as a scheduled event evolved into a two-hour, ten-minute celebration as **Guy Manoukian** and his audience refused to let the energy dissipate. The night was marked by a profound connection, with the crowd merging into a singular entity with the music, turning the performance space into an impromptu dance floor.
“This is the longest party I salute in 33 years, and it was here in Ehden.”
—Guy Manoukian
This sentiment from **Manoukian** underscored the infectious enthusiasm that defined the opening night, a testament to the festival organizers’ commitment to providing exceptional conditions for the event.
Ehden’s Enchantment Meets Musical Heritage
The breathtaking Ehden Forest served as a natural backdrop for the “Sacrifice of September” show. Amidst fragrant incense and atmospheric lighting, a captivating blend of Eastern and Western melodies intertwined with Byzantine hymns and folk rhythms.
Guy Manoukian expertly fused his contemporary sound with Lebanon’s rich lyrical legacy. His performance included beloved national songs and reinterpretations of classics, all enhanced by the vibrant beats of the Hadiniyah Dabkeh, expertly delivered by Abu Rabie and his ensemble.
The Artist’s Perspective
In a candid interview, **Manoukian** shared his deep-seated passion for performing, describing each concert as a significant responsibility and a source of profound excitement before every appearance.
He expressed immense admiration for Ehden, lauding its natural beauty as an inspiration that evokes a sense of awe for the Creator. For **Manoukian**, his stage presence stems from pure love and dedication, aiming to foster a positive atmosphere and provide an escape from daily worries.
Manoukian emphasized the vital role of art in cultural enrichment and economic support, encouraging expatriates to visit Lebanon and experience its beauty firsthand. He also extended a special acknowledgment to Mrs. Rima Franjieh, the festival president, praising her dedication to Ehden and her impactful use of influence for the region’s benefit.
The opening of this year’s festival redefined the role of such events, offering more than just artistic performances. It presented a holistic experience designed to reconnect people with their heritage, promising a season of renewal and collective celebration as a dynamic cultural statement. In 2022, Lebanon’s cultural sector contributed an estimated $2.1 billion to its GDP, highlighting the economic significance of such events (World Bank 2022).
