JOUNIEH: Amid the shadows cast by Lebanon’s economic woes, Thursday night’s “Shining Stars of Hope” event lit up Jounieh, just outside Beirut, as 120 artists, performers, choir groups and musicians hit the stage to support fellow Lebanese artists facing financial hardship. For the latest updates, follow us on Instagram @arabnews.lifestyle Hosted by veteran TV presenter Ricardo Karam, the Takreem Foundation orchestrated the “Shining Stars of Hope” event at Casino du Liban in Jounieh, pulling in a full house with more than 700 attendees. Karam set the emotional tone with a moving opening speech featuring his hopes for the future of Lebanon and he also expressed solidarity with Gaza, sparking applause from the audience. Artists hailing from different parts of Lebanon took center stage with delightful performances of beloved Christmas classics. The performances were enacted in various languages and musical styles, showcasing Lebanon"s rich cultural tapestry. Lebanese soprano singer Fadia Tomb El-Hage merged contemporary and classical genres during the event. “After the Gaza war, I chose not to participate in Christmas concerts. The tragic loss of lives in Gaza deeply affected me, and I follow the news daily. However, Ricardo Karam"s determination to support artists facing difficulties inspired me to reconsider and participate; it is a cause. It deserves our contribution. Being an artist, I understand the challenges of freelancing in a country without retirement or health insurance or royalty acknowledgement of their work. After all, people in Lebanon survive thanks to private initiatives,” El-Hage told Arab News. “Christmas embodies a celebration of family, whether it"s our core family or a metaphorical one, like the artistic community. As artists, we aspire for our collective efforts to matter, hoping that our performances have brought joy during these challenging times filled with despair and ambiguity,” she added. The night progressed with a joyful atmosphere as tenors delved into the realms of jazz, and pop singers explored the world of classical melodies. Among these artists was Tania Kassis, who sang in pop-opera style and surprised the audience by performing “Chou betmanna” (“How I Wish”), a song that has yet to be officially released. The lineup also included Ronza, Yuri Mrakadi, tenors Marc Reaidy Baz and Bechara Moufarrej, baritone Maxim Chami and countertenor Matteo Khodr. Choir singers from the Tania Kassis Academy, alongside musicians and dancers from the Zirka troupe, also graced the stage, which was designed by Jean-Louis Mainguy. “Tonight was beautiful. The people, the music, the attendance, the media, the energy — I believe this mission was successfully completed,” Yuri Mrakadi, a prominent Lebanese singer and composer, said on stage. “In gratitude for the dreams that these artists ignited in us, the least we can do is show solidarity and appreciation,” Mrakadi added.