Freddy Ginebra, the founder and director of Casa de Teatro, was awarded the prestigious “Officier des Arts et Lettres” distinction by the French government. The award ceremony took place at Casa de Teatro on 20 February 2025.
The French Ambassador to the Dominican Republic, Sonia Barbry, presented the award to Ginebra on behalf of the French Minister of Culture. This recognition celebrates Ginebra’s remarkable 50-year career leading Casa de Teatro, a pivotal hub for cultural expression in the country.
The French Ambassador stated that the medal awarded to Freddy Ginebra is a recognition of his exceptional career, marking his 81st birthday and his 50 years at the helm of Casa de Teatro, the country’s leading independent cultural hub. It is worth noting that Freddy Ginebra’s maternal grandparents were both French, from Corsica.
Madame Barbry emphasized: “There is much talk today about a cultural war, but those who truly value culture know that it is not a war. It is about respect for others, curiosity, the ability to share and love, an open mind, an admiration for beauty, and the aspiration to become a better person.”
The “Officier des Arts et Lettres” award is a testament to Ginebra’s significant contributions to the arts and literature. Casa de Teatro has served as a platform for numerous French artists, musicians, filmmakers, and thinkers, fostering cultural exchange between France and the Dominican Republic.
Ginebra expressed his gratitude for the honor, acknowledging the transformative power of art and its ability to unite people. This accolade further solidifies Ginebra’s legacy as a cultural visionary and his invaluable impact on the Dominican Republic’s artistic landscape.
Freddy Ginebra, who had previously received the first grade of this distinction 10 years ago (“Chevalier des Arts et des Lettres”), thanked France as he received the award: “This is a tribute to all those who have believed in the transformative power of art… Because culture is, at its core, an act of love. An act of faith in humanity.”
“Life sometimes surprises us with such beautiful moments that one can’t help but wonder if they truly deserve them. Today is one of those days when the heart overflows, and words fall short in expressing so much gratitude, so much emotion, so much happiness,” Ginebra said in his acceptance speech, as reported in Diario Libre.
The medal honors the extraordinary journey of this prominent figure in the Dominican Republic, who for over 50 years has opened wide the doors of both Dominican and international culture and art in all its forms.
The Embassy of France acknowledged that France has always had a presence at Casa de Teatro, where Freddy Ginebra has hosted French musicians (notably during the Jazz Festival), visual artists, theater performers, film screenings, and thinkers.
In recent years, several initiatives stand out, such as the concert by the Caribbean Trio Mario Canonge at Casa de Teatro, the organization of cinema cycles, the welcoming of poets Carles Diaz and Martinique’s Nicole Cage during the International Poetry Week, and the hosting of events like the Fête de la Musique and Francophonie celebrations.
The Order of Arts and Letters originates from the ancient Order of Saint Michael, established in 1469, and took its current form in 1957. French Minister of Culture André Malraux described the Order as “the most respected and coveted by artists and creators.” The Embassy of France explains that Internationally recognized, the award was created to honor individuals who have made significant contributions to the arts and literature, such as actor, writer, journalist, and cultural manager Freddy Ginebra.
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Embassy of France
Diario Libre
25 February 2025