Zeina Daccache, a trailblazer in the field of drama therapy, has made significant strides in transforming lives and advocating for policy change through her pioneering work in Lebanon. In 2007, she established Catharsis-Lebanese Center for Drama Therapy, an innovative non-profit organization dedicated to integrating drama therapy into various sectors of Lebanese society. Her vision and commitment have led to transformative projects that address issues of social justice, mental health, and personal empowerment.
Innovative Legal Reform Through “12 Angry Lebanese”
One of her notable achievements includes the 2009 production “12 Angry Lebanese,” a groundbreaking theatre performance created with inmates at Roumieh Prison. This production not only garnered international acclaim but also contributed to significant legal reform. The 8-time award winning documentary ”12 Angry Lebanese”, produced alongside the theatre piece played a crucial role in the implementation of Law 463, which introduced the reduction of sentences for good behaviour, marking a pivotal moment in Lebanese criminal justice reform.
Empowering Women Through “Scheherazade in Baabda”
Zeina’s impact continued with the creation of “Scheherazade in Baabda” in 2012, a compelling play developed with women inmates of Baabda Prison. Through this production, the participants shared their personal stories, aiming to heal their wounds and reflect societal issues related to the oppression of women. The accompanying documentary, “Scheherazade’s Diary,” achieved remarkable success, winning ten international awards and further establishing Zeina’s reputation as a leading figure in drama therapy and social advocacy.
Her 2014 documentary “Scheherazade’s Diary” contributed to the passing of a bill for the protection of women and family members from domestic violence. In April 2014, after many cases of domestic violence, and years of activism, a bill for the protection of women and members of the family passed in the Lebanese parliament. Scheherazade’s Diary the documentary was part of the activism achieved towards the law.
Legislation for Mentally Ill Offenders
Also in the prison context, Her 2016 theatre production, “Johar… Up in the Air,” and her award winning film “The Blue Inmates”, produced in 2021, featuring inmates from Roumieh and highlighting issues faced by mentally ill inmates and those sentenced to life imprisonment, led to 2 draft laws presented to the Lebanese Parliament aiming to improve legislation for these groups.
Advocating for Disadvantaged Populations
In addition to her work with incarcerated individuals, Zeina has addressed the needs of various disadvantaged populations. Her projects, such as “Shebaik Lebaik” (2014) with migrant domestic workers and “From the Bottom of My Brain” (2013) with psychiatric hospital residents, have not only provided therapeutic benefits but also advocated for policy changes. The Circular number 1778 issued in October 2014, stating that Migrant Domestic Workers are not allowed to have romantic relationships on the Lebanese territory has been abolished in July 2015 by the circular number 2262.
Expanding Influence Through Therapy and Education
Beyond her advocacy and creative endeavors, Zeina also offers individual therapy through her private practice clinic and works with professionals from various sectors to enhance productivity and communication skills. She teaches Drama Therapy at several universities in Lebanon and the region, sharing her expertise and passion with the next generation of practitioners. Her exceptional contributions to social initiatives and services have earned her numerous awards, recognizing her dedication to making a profound impact through drama therapy and social reform.
You can watch all films and plays here:
The film 12 Angry Lebanese
The film Scheherazade’s Diary
https://dafilms.com/film/15652-scheherazade-s-diary
The film THE BLUE INMATES
https://dafilms.com/film/15653-the-blue-inmates
The play: Johar up in the air (2016)
the play: Scheherazade in Baabda (2013)
the play: Shebaik Lebaik (2014-2015)
the play: From the Bottom of my Brain
Author: Zeina Daccache
For more biographies like this, head to: WHO IS SHE? – Executive-Women
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