In the heart of Lebanon, where societal challenges are as diverse as its rich cultural tapestry, one woman has harnessed the power of drama to heal, empower, and advocate for change. Zeina Daccache, a pioneering drama therapist, play, and film director, has dedicated her life to giving voice to the voiceless and bringing light to the shadows of Lebanese society. Through her innovative approach, she has not only transformed individual lives but has also sparked systemic reforms.
Early Life and Passion for Theatre
Zeina Daccache’s journey into the world of drama began early in her life. Her profound love for the arts led her to pursue studies in scenic and dramatic arts at Saint Joseph University in Lebanon, where she graduated with honors in 2000. Eager to deepen her craft, she furthered her training at the prestigious Ecole Philippe Gaulier in England, immersing herself in the nuances of performance and storytelling.
Transition to Drama Therapy
While her initial foray into the arts saw her gracing television screens as an actress, Daccache felt a compelling urge to merge her artistic talents with a deeper purpose. This calling led her to the realm of drama therapy—a field where the therapeutic potential of drama is harnessed to promote mental health and personal development. To equip herself for this path, she pursued graduate studies in drama therapy at Kansas State University and later obtained a master’s degree in clinical psychology from Haigazian University in 2011.
Founding Catharsis: A Beacon of Hope
In 2007, Daccache founded Catharsis – Lebanese Center for Drama Therapy, the first organization of its kind in Lebanon and the Arab region. Catharsis aims to provide therapeutic services through drama to various segments of society, including prisoners, refugees, domestic violence survivors, and individuals with mental illnesses. Under her leadership, Catharsis has grown into a beacon of hope, offering innovative programs that address pressing social issues and challenge societal norms.
Pioneering Drama Therapy in Prisons
One of Daccache’s most groundbreaking initiatives was introducing drama therapy into Lebanese prisons. In 2009, she directed “12 Angry Lebanese,” a play performed by 40 inmates at Roumieh Prison, Lebanon’s largest penitentiary. This project not only provided the inmates with a platform to express their stories but also highlighted the urgent need for penitentiary reform in the country. The success of this initiative played a pivotal role in the enactment of the early release law in 2009, which had been dormant since its publication in 2002.
Advocacy Through Film
Daccache’s commitment to social change extends beyond the stage to the realm of documentary filmmaking. Her 2013 film, “Scheherazade’s Diary,” chronicles the experiences of female inmates at Baabda Prison as they prepare and present the first theater performance staged inside an Arab women’s prison. The documentary sheds light on issues such as domestic violence, failed marriages, and the oppression of women, challenging Lebanese society to confront these deeply rooted problems.
Championing Mental Health Reform
In her continuous efforts to address systemic issues, Daccache turned her attention to the plight of inmates with mental illnesses. Her 2021 documentary, “The Blue Inmates,” exposes the harsh realities faced by prisoners sentenced under Article 232 of the Lebanese Penal Code, which mandates incarceration “until cured.” This vague wording often results in indefinite detention without proper psychiatric evaluation or treatment. Through her work, Daccache advocates for legislative reforms to ensure that individuals with mental illnesses receive appropriate care rather than unjust imprisonment.
Empowering Marginalized Communities
Beyond the prison walls, Daccache has extended her drama therapy initiatives to other marginalized groups. She collaborated with migrant domestic workers to create the play “Shebaik Lebaik,” raising awareness about their rights and the challenges they face. By providing these workers with a platform to share their stories, Daccache fosters empathy and understanding, encouraging society to recognize and address the injustices these individuals endure.
Educational Endeavors and Training
Recognizing the need to cultivate a new generation of drama therapists, Daccache has been instrumental in developing professional training programs. Catharsis offers a comprehensive drama therapy training program, equipping participants with the necessary tools and skills to become registered drama therapists. Additionally, Daccache has served as a university professor, sharing her expertise with students and professionals in Lebanon and beyond.
Personal Life and Current Pursuits
Balancing her demanding career with personal life, Daccache is married to Zaid Nshewat, and they have one child. Despite the challenges inherent in her work, she remains deeply committed to her mission. Currently, she is working on a new project titled “Li Chabakna Ykhallesna,” set for release in 2025, which continues her tradition of using art as a medium for social commentary and reform.
Awards and Recognition
Daccache’s relentless dedication has garnered international acclaim. Her documentaries “12 Angry Lebanese” and “Scheherazade’s Diary” have collectively won numerous awards at international festivals. In 2018, she received the Arts & Culture Lebanon Impact Award from the Hult Prize, recognizing her significant contributions to the country’s cultural landscape. Furthermore, she was honored with the International Gramsci Award for Theatre in Prison in Italy in 2016. Do follow her on Instagram.
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