How do you unwind at the weekend?
Well, I usually like to have a swim in a pool – not the sea, as we can't get to the coast. Or I meet some friends and maybe go for sushi which I love. The situation in Palestine might make it harder to relax but you can't think about it a lot. It's in the back of your mind and trouble comes in waves: sometimes there's something on the television, sometimes not. But we go on living our lives normally.
What do you recall most about weekends growing up?
I remember sitting at home watching TV and films. Egyptian films and theatre were like the Hollywood of the region. Growing up, I think you don't get enough information about choosing partners and about love so you learn the hard way, from experience. And women always love the masculine guy, the bad guy, the Don Juan. In Another Lover's Discourse, partly based on interviews with men and women, I look at healing, self-reflection and the way we want something safe, secure.
Do you have a must-listen to radio programme or podcast?
I love a Lebanese podcast, Sarde After Dinner, in which the two presenters discuss everything, religion, politics, romance, whatever's happen and interview famous people too.
Is Sunday still special?
It's the day I try to rest and take off as I'm a hard working independent. I am Greek orthodox but was brought up in a fairly secular family so only go to church for funerals and weddings.
Have you a favourite restaurant or is it takeaways?
No, I don't like takeaways and I cook a lot - Palestinian dishes with vegetables and pasta as I am vegetarian. But I also enjoy being in restaurants.
How do you feel on Sunday evening about Monday morning?
I try not to think about work until Monday morning, that's when I get stressed. This is my first visit to Northern Ireland and the people are so welcoming. It's great talking to people everywhere and I want to explore more.
:: Another Lover's Discourse by Riham Isaac runs at The MAC today at 7pm and tomorrow at 3pm as part of the Belfast International Arts Festival. The show contains adult themes and strong language. themaclive.com, belfastinternationalartsfestival.com.
Jane Hardy
