The entire cast and the Yerevan Youth Orchestra greeting the audience at the end of the performance of "Gianni Schicchi," at the Emile Bustani Auditorium during the last concert of the al-Bustan Festival 2026 before its suspension on Sunday, March 1st. (Credit: Nabil Ismail/al-Bustan Festival)
Al-Bustan International Festival has announced the immediate suspension of its 32nd edition, themed “Family and Friends” this year, citing escalating tensions in Lebanon and the war between Iran, the United States, and Israel. The decision was taken “with a heavy heart,” according to the organizers, after an opening week that was widely praised for the quality of its programming.
Four evenings had already set the tone for this edition, from the opening performance by the Khalifeh-Rouhana duo to the highly anticipated staging of Gianni Schicchi by Sir Bryn Terfel. However, in light of the current circumstances, the festival organizers have decided to prioritize the safety of artists, technical staff, and audiences.
Ticket holders who purchased their tickets via Antoine Ticketing, at the Al-Bustan Hotel, or at branches of Librairie Antoine can get a full refund from the point of purchase.
Founded in 1994, the Al-Bustan Festival has grown over the decades into one of the premier events on Lebanon’s music scene, often regarded as a vital cultural refuge in a country frequently beset by crises. While this suspension brings the festival to an abrupt pause, the organizers emphasize their ongoing commitment to its mission and hope to resume as soon as conditions permit.
In the meantime, they promise to keep audiences informed of any updates.
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