The Division of Audio-Visual Arts (DAVA) within the Faculty of Humanities at Notre Dame University-Louaize (NDU) presented Hotel Labrish, an emotionally realistic play featuring approximately 50 RTV/Film and Media students. The production was supervised by DAVA Director Pierrot Haddad, along with DAVA staff and faculty members.
Written by Wadih Al Semaani and Jimmy Rahi, and directed by Isack Joe Bastajian, Hotel Labrish—“Labrish” meaning “gossip”—is a comedy set in a bustling hotel, following the interconnected lives of its staff and guests. An overworked hotel owner seeks comfort from a fortune teller, especially regarding her emigrant son, who is married to a “nasty” foreigner. A quirky couple arrives deeply in love on their honeymoon, but their bliss is short-lived. Meanwhile, the hotel staff occasionally reveal their secret affections and uncertainties about the future, whenever the lobby walls are calm enough to listen. Every character, from the loud singer to the quiet old man always present, delivers a fundamental message. As their individual narratives intertwine throughout a chaotic day, unexpected connections are formed. In the end, they learn valuable lessons about teamwork, empathy, and the power of human connection, leaving the audience with a smile and a fresh perspective on their own realities.
Father President Bechara Khoury praised the students’ hard work and exceptional talents, emphasizing how NDU fosters positivity through creativity. “When this play was first performed during the recent war, this creative work made us realize that gifted people always bring joy, reminding us of the true image of God, which is pure happiness.”
Dr. Maria Bou Zeid, Dean of the Faculty of Humanities, highlighted the significance of the play as a practical application of the theories learned by Radio TV and Film students. She emphasized that this production provided students with hands-on experience in all aspects of theater, from writing, directing, and acting to setting up lighting and sound.
Notable media and entertainment figures attended the show, including Zaven Kouyoumdjian, Nazih Youssef, Rima Karaki, Ghida Majzoub, Lilian Boustani, Pierre Nakhle, and others.
Hotel Labrish showcased NDU students’ artistic collaboration, reflecting their creativity, dedication, and NDU’s strong belief in their potential. This project serves as an inspiration for other students—whether in the Humanities or other fields—to pursue their passions and work diligently toward their dreams.