Monday — In celebration of World Theatre Day, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), in partnership with the Ministry of Environment, the Embassy of Italy in Lebanon, and the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation (AICS) organized a theatrical event at Machaa Chnaniir Nature Reserve.

The immersive storytelling performance, titled "A Play on the Way" (مسرحیة ع درب المحمية), marked Lebanon's first theater production staged directly on a nature trail. The 2 km theatrical hike within Machaa Chnaniir Nature Reserve transformed the landscape into an engaging and dynamic living stage, featuring live music, choreography and artistic elements through dynamically blending biodiversity, conservation, and the relationship between human and nature. 

Forty students from Collège des Pères Antonins – Baabda performed at various stations along the trail. Their production showcased the reserve's ecological and cultural heritage, including, wildlife’s role in maintaining ecological balance, sustainable forest practices, and ongoing restoration of historical stone houses and lime kiln, portraying the deep connection of village life and its surrounding environment.

The event, organized by the UNDP-Step4Nature Project, funded by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation through AICS, and implemented in partnership with the Ministry of Environment, demonstrated how creative and artistic initiatives can promote ecotourism by integrating art, nature and sustainability within protected areas—while preserving their ecological integrity. Beyond attracting visitors, such experiences can also help generate income to support the sustainable management and preservation of Lebanon’s natural landscapes.

The event was attended by the Minister of environment, H.E. Dr. Tamara El Zein, who stated that “Nature reserves are not just protected areas; they are living ecosystems that tell the story of our land, people, and traditions. This theatrical hike is an example of how creative expression can amplify the importance of conservation. By engaging the public through art, we are able to instill a deeper appreciation for biodiversity and inspire a new generation to take meaningful action toward protecting Lebanon’s rich natural heritage.” — Dr. Tamara El Zein

“Italy has long championed the synergy between cultural heritage and environmental conservation. This initiative perfectly embodies that vision—using theatre and music as bridges between nature and community. We believe that raising awareness through culture not only educates but also strengthens the social fabric needed to support sustainable development. We are proud to support this collaboration that brings together education, art, and ecology in such a dynamic and impactful way.” — H.E. Fabrizio Marcelli, Ambassador of Italy in Lebanon

“Conservation efforts must go hand in hand with community engagement and creativity. Through this event, we have demonstrated how environmental messages can resonate more deeply when delivered through the arts. Protecting biodiversity is essential—not just for the health of ecosystems, but for building climate resilience, supporting livelihoods, and securing a sustainable future. UNDP is proud to partner on similar initiatives that celebrate innovation while fostering meaningful environmental stewardship.” — Blerta Aliko, UNDP Resident Representative.

“Historically, environment and culture are inextricably intertwined, with nature being not only the geographical setting of our cultural activities, but an integral and defining element of our history and identity. Urbanisation, environmental degradation, lack of regulations threaten this connection, causing an increasing detachment from nature. This theatrical hike is the best example of the efforts to maintain and strengthen this link.” — Alessandra Piermattei, AICS Beirut Director.

Machaa Chnaniir Nature Reserve: An Overview

Established under Law 122 (July 23, 2010), Machaa Chnaniir Nature Reserve is located on communal lands in the village of Chnaniir (Kesrouan District), at an altitude ranging from 500 to 800 meters. Bordered by Ghazir, Dlebta, Meerab, Ghosta, and Jounieh, the 27 hectares reserve is home to a rich mix of oak and pine woodlands, offering stunning panoramic views of Jounieh Bay.

Beyond its rich low-altitude forest biodiversity, the reserve reflects the sustainable practices once embraced by the villagers of Chnaniir. It hosts diverse wildlife, dense vegetation, and significant cultural and historical landmarks, including a 19th century limestone furnace, used to produce lime mortar for the constructing stone houses and churches, remnants of 22 historical charcoal platforms, and ancient vaulted stone structure, that served as a shelter for herders and their goat flocks—a testament to the harmonious relationship between the local community and their natural environment.

About UNDP

UNDP is working in Lebanon since 1986 as a development partner supporting economic recovery, including working with municipalities to deliver basic services to host communities, promoting clean energy and solid waste management, strengthening governance and rule of law, providing support to elections, and working on empowering women and youth.