The Butterflies and Bumblebees of Middle East Airlines

In time for International Archives Week (IAW), and as part of the Modern Heritage Observatory (MoHO) activities, the Archival Department of the Sursock Museum will open this display on Thursday June 11. The archival collection of the Middle East Airlines (MEA) Folkloric Dance Troupe features approximately 500 items, including photographs, documents, and press clippings. A curated selection from these archives, preserved by the Bou Harb family, provides insight into the troupe’s colorful history, as they toured extensively across continents, performing at major international festivals and representing Lebanon abroad.

This archival material will be made accessible to researchers, encouraging exploration and engagement. We hope that the archive will be expanded through contributions from descendants of Middle East Airlines employees and that it will serve as a valuable resource on the history of a landmark Lebanese institution.

Curated by Head of Archives, Rowina Bou Harb and Nidale Hamouche Bou Harb.