A Manifesto by the European Theatre Convention (ETC)
RESISTANCE NOW TOGETHER
We, theatre makers and members of the European Theatre Convention (ETC), are proud to form part of the largest theatre network in Europe — and to share a commitment to collaboration, sustainability, and welcoming different perspectives.
We see how the growing shadow of war, diplomatic challenges, and a crushing economic context can encourage fear, pessimism and division.
But we resist this trend.
All live performing arts bring us together. They bring out the best in us. They cross borders to fill us with empathy, understanding, possibility and belief.
As leading theatres from more than 30 countries in Europe, we believe in a world of diversity, exchange, respect and collaboration. These values guide ETC activities and the ETC Vision 2030.
We believe in the creative potential of theatres to connect and empower critical thinking in audiences. We believe in the fundamental importance of protecting artistic expression from political interference.
We therefore commit to:
- RESISTANCE: Opposing the trend towards division, censorship, political interference in cultural autonomy
- NOW: Programming exciting and diverse work that connects communities
- TOGETHER: Fostering opportunities to work with partners across borders so that theatres stand as beacons of open dialogue, mutual respect, and creative exchange.
On this day in Athens, Greece, our community of 70+ European theatres calls on societies and world leaders to be guided by the values of Democracy, Equality, Freedom of Speech and Cultural Freedom.
We unite to defend a strong, free culture in Europe.
We invite the performing arts sector to join our Europe-wide campaign RESISTANCE NOW TOGETHER.
Endorsed by the Members of the European Theatre Convention (ETC), 4 April 2025 at the National Theatre of Greece in Athens.
Part of the RESISTANCE NOW TOGETHER campaign, launched in partnership between the European Theatre Convention (ETC) and Vienna Festival (Wiener Festwochen) | Free Republic of Vienna.
Photo: ETC International Theatre Conference at National Theatre of Greece/Athens (c) Apostolis Kousianikoulis
