Since I have left to Berlin at the end of the summer, I have been back to Jenin twice, once in October and once now, at end of November, to supervise the construction works.
The visit in October was most effective. Within a week, the stage was enlarged by a steel/wood construction. It was amazing how fast the ironworks and the wooden decking was ready. Here in Jenin, I found the most incredible metal-works company owned by the Jalbuni family, who supported the project from the very beginning by generous donations. With their help, we are also restoring the old cast-iron cinema chairs. Their excellent equipment makes it possible to do almost anything.

During that week, the Ramallah based Goethe Institute visited us to discuss the design of their contribution to the project. It is another great opportunity and enrichment for our “multiproject” to have them on board, opening an outpost here in Jenin. The Goethe Institute will reside in the rooms on the first floor of the cinema and host a gallery-section in the foyer. After the meeting with Joerg Schuhmacher, head of the office in Ramallah, we immediately started preparing the discussed gallery-space.

Before leaving to Berlin, I had discussed with Ma’moun all the work that needed to be completed while I am away.

Ma’moun is my wonderful assistant and friend, who supports me in the most incredible way.

Now, being back here since the 24th of November, I am looking forward to moving the works again a bit further. Unfortunately or luckily, I arrived just in time for the Kurban Bayram (Feast of Sacrifice), one of the highest holidays in the Muslim world. So everything on site is shut down and we can take it easy.

The other good thing is that our guesthouse starts to be well-known in the region and is receiving more and more international guests. The last two days, we had the pleasure to welcome eight new guests.

Anyway, while waiting for the holiday to finish, I´ll do some homework and keep you posted.

have fun!

Johannes