Credit: Jaimee Lee Haddad
Hello and welcome to the very first edition of Breakfast in Bed!
For me, there’s nothing quite like a slow weekend morning – a precious ritual of self-care to refresh and reset. But let’s face it, even for us news enthusiasts, reading the daily headlines isn't always the best recipe for relaxation. That’s why, starting this week, I’m whipping up a healthy assortment of stories designed to help you unwind and escape. Whether you’re enjoying them from the beach or pairing them with your Saturday brunch, I hope these pieces add a touch of brightness to your weekend routine.
On the menu this week:
1. Catch a concert this weekend
Some worried that this year’s Fête de la Musique might be canceled, but fear not! The beloved annual tradition returned full steam ahead on Friday, transforming the country once more into a vibrant open-air venue. With the philosophy "music should be everywhere and concerts nowhere" still firmly at its core, here are the standout performances to look out for this weekend.
2. The history of coffee in Lebanon
Speaking of morning rituals, there’s no more fitting time than during your weekend sobhiyet to reflect on the history of coffee in Lebanon. Whether you’re drinking traditional raqweh poured into a tiny porcelain cup and listening to Fairuz or sipping a flat white in a trendy Beirut cafe, Amanda Haydar explores the origins of your morning brew and its cultural significance in the region.
3. Dar Onboz presents the bouzouki
You may well know about the oud, but have you heard of its lesser-known relative the bouzouki ? This month the creative platform, Dar Onboz is hosting a festival to celebrate the history and renaissance of this unique instrument and its role in both modern and traditional music. From concerts, to workshops and their own published books there’s plenty to explore at Dar Onboz.
4. Jim Quilty fills us in on what’s been happening at Masrah al Madina.
The twin exhibitions at Masrah al-Madina, "Don’t Stop Drawing" and "Palestine: Drawing, Documenting, Defying," highlight the intersection of art and activism. These exhibitions showcase how the handmade sketches of Jana Traboulsi and Mazen Kerbaj, posted on instagram became visual timelines of the Gaza conflict. Other events like the « Ode to Palestine » concert and talks with Gazan surgeon Ghassan Abu Sitta aim to both educate and inspire while fundraising for the Abu Sittah Children’s Fund.
5. We interviewed a Lebanese Real Housewife
Finally, for fans of The Real Housewives, don’t miss our exclusive interview with Real Housewives of Sydney star Nicole Gazal-O’Neil. The pageant queen-turned-reality TV star spoke with L’Orient Today about being Lebanese in Australia, and the sentiment behind her iconic catchphrase "In a city of riches, I find true wealth at home."
That wraps up this week’s Breakfast in Bed. Wishing you a restful weekend ahead!
