Antonine University (UA), through the Office of Student Affairs, welcomed students, alumni, staff, and guests to a lively theatrical evening as the UA Drama Club presented its latest production, “The Virtuous Burglar,” at Our Lady of the Seeds Monastery on the Hadat–Baabda Campus. Directed by Mr. Michel Hourany, Assistant Professor at the Faculty of Information and Communication, the performance offered a spirited blend of humor, physical expression, and bold social insight.
Adapted from the work of Italian playwright and Nobel Prize laureate Dario Fo, the play unfolded with fast-paced comedic momentum, surprising turns, and sharp dialogue. The audience enjoyed a performance in which misunderstanding, tension, and well-timed humor revealed the contradictions, secrets, and shifting loyalties of its characters.
A Talented Student Cast
The cast, composed entirely of talented UA students from various majors, breathed life into Fo’s text with striking dynamism and confident stage presence. Roni Ghareeb portrayed Khalil Kheryati, the burglar, with impeccable comedic timing, while Gaelle Asmar captured the role of his wife, Maria Kheryati, with clarity and expressive nuance.
Hassan Sahely delivered a convincing performance as the unfaithful husband, Said Fouwaz, joined by Anna Maria Khalil as his wife, Anna, and Perla Roukoz as his mistress, Julia, who is in turn married to Antonio, played by Anthony Zoghby—each adding warmth, liveliness, and contradiction to the unfolding chaos.
The ensemble was rounded out by Charbel Chamoun, who appeared as the second burglar, bringing an unexpected twist and reinforcing the play’s energetic rhythm.
A Dedicated Production Team
Behind the curtain, a passionate and hardworking student crew ensured that every detail of the evening came together seamlessly.
First Assistant Director and Production Manager Rita Maria Alphonse, who is also the President of the Drama Club, played a central role in coordinating all logistical and creative elements.
The visual identity and aesthetic direction were led by Art Director Benita Rafqa Ghanem, supported by Assistant Art Director Marie Jeanne El Boueiz, who both shaped the production’s look and atmosphere.
Second Assistant Director Lana Dennaoui helped sustain the flow of the performance, while Production Coordinator Celine Jawhari ensured organizational precision throughout the evening.
The technical elements were entrusted to Sound Operator Carl Abou Mrad and Light Operator Jad El Amine, with wardrobe managed attentively by Laure Harb.
Stage Manager Elissa Haddad ensured backstage harmony, assisted by Production Assistants Mira Shamass and Rayana Majdalany, and supported by stage crew member Clara Maria Antoun, all working together to bring the audience a refined, cohesive experience.
A Night of Support and Celebration
The event also drew the attendance of several public figures who came to support the students’ artistic journey. Among them were Mr. Nehme Badawi, President of the Syndicate of Actors, actor Mr. Mahmoud Majed, actress Ms. Hind Baz, and beauty expert and consultant Ms. Layla Obeid. Each expressed admiration for the talent, creativity, and professionalism displayed on stage.
Following the performance, Fr. Jean Al Alam, Vice Rector for Integral Human Development, addressed the audience with heartfelt words, emphasizing that the evening marked far more than the end of a play; it marked the culmination of a meaningful journey filled with dedication, imagination, and collective effort.
He highlighted how the students proved that university life extends beyond courses and examinations, opening doors to new experiences that nurture talent, confidence, and personal growth.
Fr. Al Alam praised the cast and entire production team for their commitment, teamwork, and ability to balance academic responsibilities with artistic passion, affirming that such initiatives contribute profoundly to students’ well-being and integral human development. He expressed deep gratitude to Director Mr. Michel Hourany for his unwavering dedication, artistic vision, and inspiring mentorship, noting that his long-standing work with UA students continues to shape a culture of creativity and excellence.
The evening concluded with a moment of recognition for all actors and crew members, celebrating the joy, energy, and sense of community they brought to the stage.
Reinforcing UA’s Commitment to Culture and Well-being
This event once again reflects UA’s commitment to cultivating a vibrant cultural environment that values artistic expression as an essential part of student life and well-being. By supporting initiatives that bring the community together around shared cultural experiences, UA continues to strengthen the role of the arts as a meaningful pathway to learning, reflection, and collective engagement.
In response to the enthusiastic feedback and overwhelming demand from attendees, the Drama Club will present an additional performance on Friday, November 28, at 7:30 PM. Be many!