Arze, the movie main character, struggling to find solutions to her daily struggle. Press Kit (2024) – Arzé Film, Ambient Light
The recent screening of Arzé hosted by the Arabic Language and Cultural Association of South Australia (ALCASA) sparked a rich celebration of Arabic culture through cinema, music, hospitality, and community spirit. The event also served as a platform to introduce ALCASA’s exciting new project initiative: Arabic Arts Alive 2025.
The evening began with a moving musical intermission by Syrian-born oud player and composer, Adnaan Baraky, whose evocative performance created a sentimental and reflective atmosphere. His artistry set the perfect tone for a night grounded in cultural appreciation.
Following the music, Chairperson Fayrouz Ajaka and Secretary Hassan Mekawy of ALCASA unpacked the vision behind Arabic Arts Alive 2025. The project’s aim to celebrate Arabic artistic expression across the state was highlighted, which invited the community to engage in the rich diversity, creativity, and vibrancy of Arabic culture through a wide array of future events, including the upcoming Arabic singing groups and Dabke performances.
The screening of Arzé was bitter-sweet. Not only did the handcrafted Fatayr (فطاير) pastries reel in the audience’s tastebuds, but also the authentic portrayal of contemporary Arabic life— depicted through the everyday hardship that citizens of Lebanon face— captivated audiences emotionally and sparked thoughtful conversations after the credits.
Overall, the event was a sentimental evening that reconnected the ALCASA community and aspiring artists to get involved with the Arabic Arts Alive 2025 project in order to set the stage for a dynamic year ahead.
If you’re interested in participating in the project Arabic Arts Alive please complete the Expression Of Interest at https://forms.office.com/r/Lr9AhepcaS
إلى اللقاء
Ila al-liqā (until next time)
Tania Zebian
Proudly supported by a City of Adelaide Arts and Cultural Grant
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