DoomsdaysCWMy hero! This dude is as brave AF!
A Lebanese dancer defies extremist threats and social norms with his sold-out performances
by Malak Harb and Kareem Chehayeb
September 13, 2025
Excerpt: "#AlexandrePaulikevitch put on his white dress and wig and danced his way to center stage, knowing that the extremist groups who had threatened him before his controversial recital might be waiting for him outside the theater.
"The Lebanese dancer’s sold-out performance to a cheering crowd at a popular #Beirut venue had angered #fundamentalist movements ranging from the #RightWing #ChristianSoldiersOfGod to #SunniIslamists.
"The fundamentalists say Paulikevitch is 'promoting #homosexuality' because he wears dresses and corsets and undulates to classical Arabic music in a way which society largely sees as exclusive to women.
"Paulikevitch says he’s breaking social norms and reintroducing forms of dance that were commonplace for men as recently as the early 20th century.
"Lebanon is seen as a place of relative tolerance in the region when it comes to #LGBTQ+ rights, following years of #activism from the #QueerCommunity and supporters. But the community still faces restrictions and even violence."
#GBLTQ #Lebanon #Dancing #BellyDancing #RaqsDancing #MaleDancers
Lebanese dancer Alexandre Paulikevitch defies threats with sold-out Beirut show
Lebanese dancer Alexandre Paulikevitch takes to the stage in Beirut, defying extremist threats. His sold-out performance, which includes wearing dresses and dancing to classical Arabic music, has angered groups who accuse him of promoting homosexuality. Paulikevitch insists he is challenging social norms by simply reviving dance forms once common for men. Despite Lebanon's relative tolerance, the LGBTQ+ community still faces challenges. Security concerns were high, but the show went on without incident. Paulikevitch, a longtime activist, sees his art as resistance and hopes to inspire others. He remains optimistic about the future of artistic expression and LGBTQ+ rights in Lebanon.
Steve Dustcircle 🌹