Forward Magazine sponsors concert by leading Syrian pianist Ghazwan Zerkli & The National Symphony… on Dec 30, 08!

The Syrian National Symphony Orchestra is joining Syria’s most-acclaimed pianist Ghazwan Zerkli & compatriot conductor Missak Baghboudarian in a unique concert tomorrow, Dec 30 2008, at Dar al-Assad for Culture & Arts (The Opera House).
Starting at 8:30pm, the concert is sponsored by Forward Magazine, and organized by Damascus 2008 Arab Capital of Culture.
Hurry up [...]

Merry Christmas, Syria!

By mere chance I arrived in Bab Touma yesterday when a parade of Santa Clauses of every age, size and height were marching the streets of Assa’ (2assa3) market and Bab Touma’s plaza, in celebration of this year’s very merry Christmas. I felt so lucky when I asked the taxi driver: “what’s going on, is [...]

The Year Ahead: Syria in 2009

Syria started its reform program almost ten years ago when President Bashar al-Assad assumed office. There are several milestones expected in the year ahead that will change the scene in Syria including signing the Association Agreement with Europe, Bush’s departure from the White House and Obama’s inauguration, reaching a peace agreement with Israel, the launch [...]

Bush & the “Good Ol’ Iraqi Shoe!”

The Iraqi reporter who hurled a show at president Bush a couple of days ago reminded me of a political satire released by Hollywood back in 1997 – one of my most favorite movies.
Dubbed “Wag the Dog,” the movie starred Dustin Hoffman (a creative Hollywood director and special effects specialist) and Robert De Niro (playing [...]

The Night Eid Was Stolen

… and the perpetrators were caught in the act. Then they were left in peace to continue what they had started.
In the world of those that can feel no shame, the night Eid was stolen was just another night. They stood as witness at a perfectly sealed Egypt-Gaza border, and made sure that the Custodian [...]

Syria: A European Arab Country?

So if Syria is to belong to another group other than the Arab World, would it be Europe, or Asia?
Perhaps this is a more legitimate question to be asked by Turks about their country, especially with their bid to join the European Union.  However, this is a question that is being asked today about Syria, [...]

No white hair for Mickey & friends

By Sami Moubayed

Last November, the world celebrated the 80th birthday of Walt Disney’s eternal character, Mickey Mouse. For eight decades, Mickey has managed to enchant millions around the world with his landmark voice (recorded eary on by Disney himself), oversized shoes, big ears, and blue overalls. At 80, he still can dazzle visitors—and [...]