ETC International Theatre Conference: 'Thrive Theatre Thrive! Keep the Flame Alive'
In a rapidly shifting world, the way the community of European Theatres connects with each other matters more than ever for our future.
Cultural budgets are collapsing; hybrid forms of working are increasingly normal; war – and the threat of invasion – set the backdrop for too many colleagues; and hardline nationalist governments and poisonous public debate threaten the very concept of European unity, let alone the question of humanity in view of an AI-controlled world.
‘Thrive Theatre Thrive! Keep the Flame Alive’, the upcoming ETC International Theatre Conference, is a chance to reflect on how theatres can remain resilient and creative in the face of these disruptions. It will take place at the National Theatre of Greece/Athens from 03 – 07 April 2025 and consider:
- How can theatres support democratic and humanistic values in 2025?
- Can our artistic choices fight disinformation and protect creative freedom?
- What kind of leadership and working conditions are needed in theatre?
- What relationship should theatres develop with diverse audiences, with the next generation?
- Above all: how can we remain accessible and sustainable organisations that make brilliant artistic work and are a source of well-being, for our community and society?
More than just a conference, the full programme will include opportunities to intensify European collaboration through ETC's new programmes on digitality, sustainability and diversity, as part of 'BREAK THE MOULD', our EU-funded project for 2024-2028; panels on artistic freedom and future-proofing theatre; and a dynamic mix of artistic, professional and networking events to apply the latest innovations and trends in artistic work.
In addition, the event will explore how theatres can shape the ‘Culture Compass’, a strategic framework for culture in Europe, initiated by European Commission President Ursula Von der Leyen. Attendees will also be invited to the National Theatre of Greece’s Showcase of Greek Theatre, which aims to introduce audiences to the very best of Greek theatre and pave the way for future partnerships and co-productions.
© Thomas Gerasopoulos
