Lebleba

Ninochka Manoug Kupelian, widely recognized by her stage name Lebleba, is a celebrated Egyptian actress and entertainer of Armenian descent. Her journey began with her talent for mimicking actors, which caught the attention of entrepreneur Ma’allem Seddeek. He introduced her to the National Theater (Al-Masrah Al-Kawmy), where she quickly gained acclaim for her performances in stand-up comedy.

Lebleba's early career included small roles in films, thanks to opportunities provided by notable figures like Anwar Wagdy and Hassan al-Seify. It was the playwright Abul-So’oud al-Ebiaary who affectionately named her Lebleba, meaning "the eloquent," after witnessing her diverse talents as a child performer, comedian, and dancer.

She was briefly married to actor Hassan Youssef but chose not to remarry after their divorce. Throughout her career, Lebleba collaborated with prominent Egyptian comedian Adel Emaam, showcasing her versatility in various roles. Director Aatef al-Tayyeb recognized her talent and cast her in significant parts in the films "Dedd al-hokouma" (Anti-Government) and "Layla saakhena" (Hot Night), which earned her several accolades.

As Lebleba matured, she transitioned into more serious roles, including a poignant portrayal of a mother in Youssef Chahine's "Al-aakhar" (The Other) and a complex character as a prostitute in "Gannat al-shayaateen" (Fallen Angels Paradise), further solidifying her status as a distinguished actress in Egyptian cinema.