European Theatre Convention stands by the National Theatre Ivan Vazov based in Bulgaria as it faces challenges to its artistic freedom, and denounces a concerning movement by far-right groups across Europe to restrict freedom of expression.
In a statement released by the theatre, its leaders detail a troubling campaign of intimidation surrounding the upcoming production of 'Arms and the Man,' directed by acclaimed artist John Malkovich.
European Theatre Convention calls on European citizens and policymakers to stand in solidarity with the National Theatre Ivan Vazov, as we continue to put the spotlight on the increasing restrictions of freedom of expression in a European context, following the third edition of our European Theatre Talks: 'Free Culture: Resisting Political Interference.'
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Honored guests, colleagues, and defenders of the arts, we find ourselves at a crucial crossroads. Our upcoming production of 'Arms and the Man,' directed by the distinguished John Malkovich, has become the target of an unjust and unfounded assault: baseless accusations claim that our interpretation of Shaw’s classic play insults the Bulgarian people. This campaign, rooted in censorship and a troubling disregard for artistic freedom, aims to not only cancel the premiere but to tarnish the reputation of the entire creative team and demand the removal of our general manager, Vasil Vasilev.
In the days leading up to this momentous premiere, Mr. Vasilev and the theatre have faced a wave of threats and hate-filled communications. Social media groups have mobilized, calling for public retaliation against the artists involved, attempting to expose their personal information, and vandalizing our promotional materials, including defacing the billboard outside the theatre with demands for the play's cancellation, Mr. Malkovich's deportation, and Mr. Vasilev’s dismissal. Disturbingly, some of these groups have even threatened to disrupt the premiere and invade the theatre.
These actions are not isolated; they are driven by rising ultra-nationalist factions in Bulgaria. These groups accuse our artistic work - an entirely fictional and imaginative endeavour - of promoting a geopolitical agenda that insults our nation and its military. Their baseless claims and acts of intimidation have now extended into harassment of our team members in public spaces.
We must recognize the severity of this situation. In a democratic European state, there should be no tolerance for such censorship and intimidation. This is a defining moment for Europe to take a stand and reject the dangerous rise of ultra-nationalistic movements that seek to silence creative voices and dismantle our cultural foundations. We at the theatre are resolute in our commitment to defending artistic freedom, but we cannot do this alone. We urgently call on our European allies to stand with us, to protect the autonomy of art, and to champion freedom of expression, to ensure that the voice of creativity remains strong against those who would silence it.
National Theatre Ivan Vazov
