Before the civil war Hamra Street was known as Beirut’s trendiest hangout, and a centre of intellectual activities where numerous journalists, playwrights and musicians found their muse in our ‘Champs Elysées’. Post-war, it’s only with the opening of new theatres and the renovation of old ones that the area has been restored to its former glory. Opened in 2007, Babel Theatre is one of these booming artistic successes, and this year its stage is celebrating the holy month of Ramadan with numerous musical shows. The acts range from Iraqi Shatha Hassoun, winner of Star Academy 4, through Sami Hawwat’s Sufi music to local rising star Nisreen Hmeidan accompanied by her loyal oud, bringing back the songs of Sheikh Imam. You can look forward to many other magical nights of festivities throughout the holiday - for more info about specific shows, check listings.