Create. Collaborate. Perform.
About the workshop
This course is an ensemble theater workshop where collaboration, creativity, and collective storytelling come together. In this 4-month workshop, you won’t be rehearsing a script—you’ll devise an original play from scratch with your fellow actors. Through improvisation, movement ,and dynamic collaboration, you’ll explore the power of group creativity, culminating in a final performance shaped by your ideas and voices.
What to Expect:
- Refine acting, movement, and vocal skills.
- Build a strong ensemble through engaging theater exercises.
- Explore improvisation and storytelling techniques.
- Develop characters and scenes through collaborative creation.
- Shape a unique performance piece from concept to stage.
Duration: 4 months (Weekly 3-hour sessions)
Age Group: Adults
Final Showcase: A fully devised play performed at the end of the course.
About the trainer
From an early age, Lama was immersed in the world of theater and television, laying the foundation for a lifelong career in the performing arts. After earning a degree in Political Science from the American University of Beirut, she pursued her passion for drama at the University of California, Irvine. Her career includes acting in television series, most notably Ahla Biout Ras Beirut, and working as an assistant director on various productions. Lama also brings over 15 years of experience in advertising as an English copywriter, refining her skills in communication and creativity. In addition to her professional work in both fields, Lama has taught drama at Brumana High School, specializing in IB and A Level Drama, for over a decade, and has led various drama courses in other educational settings. Drawing on her background in both creative industries and education, she will be offering a diverse range of workshops designed to inspire and foster creative growth in both teens and adults.
TV Program Writing & Development
About the workshop
Overview:
This module covers the essential principles of writing and developing television programs, focusing on content creation, structure, and audience engagement in the digital era.
Key Topics:
- Types of TV Programs
- Entertainment, political, cultural, investigative, etc.
- Objectives of TV Programs
- Entertainment, education, cultural awareness, public influence.
- The Role of TV Programs Today
- Competing with social media and digital platforms like YouTube.
- Stages of TV Program Development
- Concept & Idea Selection: Defining the topic.
- Research & Preparation: Conducting in-depth research and gathering information.
- Defining the Program’s Purpose: Entertainment, informational, or educational.
- Scriptwriting Techniques:
- Fully scripted episodes (structured segments with exact timings).
- Outline-based scripts (guidelines with key topics).
- Hybrid approach (partial scripting with improvisation).
- Interview & Questioning Techniques
- Crafting questions that engage the audience.
- Balancing challenging and respectful inquiry.
- Set & Visual Supervision
- Aligning set design with program content and tone.
- Essential Qualities of a Program Writer/Producer
- Strong research skills & fact-checking.
- Effective scriptwriting & content structuring.
- Creativity in storytelling & engaging topics.
- Staying updated on political, cultural, and entertainment trends.
- Understanding guest profiles, backgrounds, and viewpoints.
- Conducting pre-interviews to extract unique insights.
- Generating fresh ideas and adapting them dynamically.
- Quick thinking, problem-solving, and continuous skill development.
- Ethical journalism: accuracy, neutrality, and professionalism.
- Establishing strong industry connections.
- Basic knowledge of camera work, directing, and production.
- Collaborating with hosts & guiding them through the script.
- Being present during filming to provide live feedback.
- Ensuring quality control in post-production editing.
- Assisting in promotional content selection for marketing.
This course provides hands-on training in TV content creation, preparing participants to craft impactful and engaging programs that resonate with modern audiences.
About the trainer
From a young age, Nada Imad Khalil immersed herself in the world of theatre, performing in numerous stage productions while also exploring the field of print journalism. She earned her law degree from the Lebanese University in 2008 and spent over seven years working in the legal field. However, her passion for storytelling led her to a long-standing career in journalism, which began in 1985.
Starting in political journalism, she later transitioned to entertainment reporting and television scriptwriting, where she has been actively working for over 15 years. Her creative journey also includes acting roles in television dramas and a growing portfolio of screenwriting credits, including popular Lebanese and Iraqi series such as Law Ma Iltaqayna, Om Badila, and Banat Saleh.
Beyond television, Nada has published several books, including a biography of her father, the renowned caricaturist Melhem Imad, as well as her latest novel, Diaries of a Raped Woman. She is a proud member of the Lebanese Writers’ Union and the Lebanese Press Editors Syndicate.
IMPROV
About the workshop
This course is ongoing and is split into three levels. Each level requires 3 months to complete.
Level One focuses on helping beginners develop the essential tools every actor needs to perform with confidence and authenticity. This foundational level covers key areas such as voice, body, rhythm, imagination, self-confidence, and relaxation. Through practical theater exercises, participants will learn to connect with their body and voice, engage with the space around them, and build meaningful interactions with other actors. The program emphasizes boosting self-confidence and creativity through improvisation while teaching techniques to stay calm and focused under pressure. Beginners will also explore how to prepare emotionally for performances, tapping into their feelings to create compelling characters. By the end of this level, participants will have a solid foundation in acting and the skills to craft dynamic.
Age group: Adults
Language: Lebanese
Duration: 120 minutes
About the trainer
Maya Sebaaly is an accomplished actress, director, and theater educator with over 20 years of experience. Holding a Master’s in Clinical Psychology from the Lebanese University and multiple diplomas in theater arts, directing, and improvisation, Maya has trained with renowned names such as Mounir Abu Debs and participated in workshops in Europe and Lebanon. She has been a key member of "Impro Beirut," Lebanon's first improvisational theater troupe, and has contributed to drama therapy initiatives for children with special needs and autism. Maya has taught acting at various institutions, including Holy Spirit University and several Lebanese schools, while leading acting workshops internationally. Her creative work spans writing, directing, and performing in plays, films, and TV dramas. In 2022, she founded "Reacting Lab with Maya" to advance modern acting techniques.
Mastering Body, Breath, and Character
About the workshop
Each session of the workshop is designed to guide participants through a comprehensive process, focusing on seven essential steps:
- Warm-Up:
Begin with exercises to prepare the body and mind, setting the tone for a productive session. - Physical Work:
Engage in activities to release tension and enhance flexibility, fostering a stronger connection between the actor and their body. - Breathing and Rhythm:
Breathing Exercises: Help participants relax, reduce anxiety, and project their voice with clarity and power. Rhythm Exercises: Improve timing and synchronization with dialogue, action, and emotional flow. - Listening and Rhythm:
Enhance listening skills to improve responsiveness and connection in performances. - Working in Space:
Explore and become comfortable with the performance space, promoting freedom of movement and expression. - Contact and Improvisation:
Build connections with fellow actors and practice improvisation to boost spontaneity and creativity. - Session Exit:
Conclude with reflective exercises to consolidate learning and prepare for the next session.
As participants progress, they will acquire advanced skills, including:
- Role-play and forum theater techniques.
- Chekhov exercises to foster empathy.
- Crafting short performances, such as:
- Character creation and development (physical and psychological aspects).
- Rehearsing monologues and dialogues to apply learned techniques effectively.
This workshop empowers participants to deepen their acting abilities and discover new dimensions of creativity and self-expression.
Ages: Adults
Language: Lebanese
Duration: 120 minutes
About the trainer
Gretta Aoun is a seasoned actor, director, and educator specializing in theater and dramatic arts. She holds two Master’s degrees in Method Acting and Dramatic Arts from LU. Since the 1990s, she has built an extensive career in television, cinema, and theater, collaborating with acclaimed writers and directors on productions that span genres and platforms. Gretta has taught theater courses at renowned institutions, including LAU, and several prestigious schools, inspiring students of all ages. Her dedication to advancing theater education led her to develop and lead workshops, with a focus on acting and puppetry. In addition to her accolades in acting, Gretta has directed notable plays, earned awards like "Best Lebanese Actress" in 2012, and represented Lebanese artistry in regional and international festivals. Fluent in Arabic, English, and French, she continues to blend her passion for performance with a commitment to nurturing future talents.
"Je suis"
About the workshop
« JE SUIS » est une formation complète destinée aux acteurs non francophones souhaitant maîtriser l’art de jouer et d’interpréter des rôles en langue française, que ce soit pour le cinéma, la publicité ou le théâtre. Ce programme vise à développer les compétences essentielles pour incarner des personnages avec authenticité et fluidité en français.
Au cours de cette formation, les participants travailleront sur plusieurs aspects clés :
- Techniques de jeu : apprentissage des outils fondamentaux pour renforcer la crédibilité et l’émotion dans l’interprétation.
- Préparation de personnage : exploration des processus pour construire un personnage riche et nuancé, adapté à chaque scénario ou rôle.
- Accents et diction : exercices spécifiques pour perfectionner la prononciation, affiner l’articulation et maîtriser les nuances de la langue française.
- Expression corporelle : intégration des mouvements et du langage corporel pour une performance complète et convaincante.
Cette formation unique offre aux acteurs les outils nécessaires pour dépasser les barrières linguistiques et s’immerger pleinement dans la richesse et les subtilités de la langue française. Que vous soyez débutant ou professionnel, « JE SUIS » vous aidera à révéler votre potentiel et à briller sur scène ou à l’écran.
Age group: 20+
Language: Français
Duration: 90 minutes ( et 10 mins break)
Total number of sessions: open
About the trainer
Zalfa Chelhot, artiste pluridisciplinaire avec plus de 30 ans d’expérience, est comédienne, interprète et coach de jeu, spécialisée dans la formation des jeunes et des seniors à besoins spécifiques. Entre Beyrouth et Montréal, elle a joué dans des productions internationales comme Dans l’ombre des Shafia, Little America, Incendies de Denis Villeneuve et Antigone de Sophie Deraspe (nommé aux Oscars – meilleur film étranger).
Fondatrice de “ZATELIER – Je suis!”, un atelier intensif de formation théâtrale qu’elle anime à travers le monde, elle intègre méditation, mime, clown, masque neutre, Commedia dell’Arte et expression corporelle pour développer confiance, présence et imagination. Elle a également fondé la troupe Les Comédiens en Herbe! en 1994 et écrit des comédies musicales comme Une Sirène au Pays des Pingouins! et Masterpiece of Art. À travers ses ateliers et ses performances, Zalfa démontre que l’art est une force universelle pour la croissance et la transformation.
beauty makeup for stage, tv, and cinema
About the workshop
Become a Versatile Makeup Artist
This course is designed to give you the foundational skills needed to thrive in various professional environments, from beauty salons to photoshoots and beyond.
You will learn:
- Introduction to Makeup and Tools – Understand how to choose, use, and care for professional tools.
- Product Knowledge – Explore different products and how to use them for various skin types and tones.
- Safety and Hygiene – Master essential hygiene practices to ensure client safety.
- Face Shape Analysis – Learn to create looks tailored to different face shapes.
- Corrective Colors – Use color theory to neutralize imperfections and enhance features.
- Beauty Makeup – Create a range of styles, from natural looks to glamorous transformations.
- Male Makeup – Develop techniques for subtle and professional male grooming.
- Designing Looks – Build creative looks with confidence and adaptability.
By the end, you’ll be equipped with the skills to start your journey as a professional makeup artist.
Age group: Adults
Language: Lebanese
Duration: 150 minutes
Total number of sessions: 10
*This workshop will require an additional fee for makeup products, with the exact cost to be confirmed.
About the trainer
Lena Hallis is a highly skilled and experienced makeup artist specializing in film, TV, and special effects in Lebanon. Known for her expertise and creativity, she has played a pivotal role in shaping the industry. As one of the most established special effects artists and instructors in the country, she has contributed significantly to training the next generation of professionals. Her work on numerous productions has cemented her reputation as a leading figure in makeup artistry in the region.
special effects makeup
About the workshop
Take your makeup artistry to the next level with our advanced Special Effects Makeup course! Designed for those with prior experience, this workshop will help you refine your skills and equip you with the expertise to excel in professional settings, particularly in film, theater, and TV productions.
What Will You Learn?
- Safety & Equipment
- Best practices for handling tools and materials to ensure a safe working environment.
- Realistic Injury Effects
- Creating various injuries such as bruises, black eyes, grazes, scratches, minor cuts, and wounds using different techniques and products.
- Crafting more advanced effects like deep wounds, stitched wounds, bullet wounds, and scars.
- Burns and Illness Effects
- Recreating burns at various stages using appropriate materials.
- Achieving realistic looks for shock, illness, tears, perspiration, and even a "death look."
- Hair and Wig Application
- Facial hair techniques, including beard and mustache application.
- Proper methods for wig application to ensure a seamless, professional appearance.
- Aging and Character Effects
- Creating old-age makeup using latex for realistic transformations.
- Collaboration with Actors
- Understanding the importance of discussing character needs and preferences with actors to deliver tailored and believable results.
This hands-on workshop will challenge your creativity and technical abilities, providing you with the confidence to tackle even the most complex special effects makeup. Join us and master the art of storytelling through makeup!
Age group: Adults
Language: Lebanese
Duration: 150 minutes
Total number of sessions: 10
*This workshop will require an additional fee for makeup products, with the exact cost to be confirmed.
About the trainer
Lena Hallis is a highly skilled and experienced makeup artist specializing in film, TV, and special effects in Lebanon. Known for her expertise and creativity, she has played a pivotal role in shaping the industry. As one of the most established special effects artists and instructors in the country, she has contributed significantly to training the next generation of professionals. Her work on numerous productions has cemented her reputation as a leading figure in makeup artistry in the region.
Acting for comedy - A fun and engaging workshop
About the workshop
Discover the art of comedy through movement, improvisation, and character work! This dynamic workshop is designed for anyone eager to develop comic timing, spontaneity, and physical comedy skills in a playful and supportive environment.
Through a mix of improv games, slapstick techniques, exaggerated expressions, and character development, participants will explore how humor is created through body language, voice modulation, and comedic rhythm. You’ll learn to build comedic scenes, embrace absurdity, and master the timing and delivery that make performances truly hilarious.
Whether you're a beginner or an experienced performer, this workshop will help you think on your feet, unleash your creativity, and gain confidence on stage—all while having a blast! Come ready to laugh, play, and bring out your inner comedian!
About the trainer
Mireille Panossian's journey in the arts began at a young age, driven by an innate passion for creativity and expression. After completing her education in philosophy, she specialized in dramatic arts, earning an advanced degree in theater. Her academic path was shaped by mentorship from some of the most esteemed figures in the field, which provided her with a strong foundation in performance and artistic innovation.
Over the years, Mireille has established herself as a distinguished figure in theater, known for her versatility and depth as a performer. She has collaborated with prominent directors and excelled in a wide range of productions, from compelling dramatic works to engaging children’s theater, earning a stellar reputation for her ability to breathe life into diverse characters.
In addition to her theatrical accomplishments, Mireille has made significant contributions to television and cinema, delivering memorable performances in acclaimed productions. Beyond acting, she has demonstrated her creative range as a writer and producer, developing original works that highlight her dedication to storytelling and her pursuit of artistic excellence.
A committed educator, Mireille has actively shared her expertise with aspiring performers, fostering the growth of the next generation of talent. Her teaching reflects the same passion and professionalism that have defined her career.