Varna Summer International Theatre Festival: Theatre Dialogues

The article examines the history and contemporary development of the main theatre event in Bulgaria – Varna Summer International Theatre Festival. The festival was first organised in 1992, as part of the common Eastern European effort to renew and reconnect with Western European and global cultures, following the political shift of 1989. The festival has grown significantly and evolved dynamically over its 33-year history. Launched to present the best of Bulgarian theatre, along with a few foreign productions, starting in 1997 the festival turned into an important international forum that now stands alongside other high-profile European festivals. The festival features four distinct sections: Main Programme – Bulgarian Selection; Main Programme – International Selection; the Showcase; and the Parallel Programme. Maintaining a strong tradition, every edition featured a rich tapestry of foreign and Bulgarian theatre and dance productions, exhibitions, street performances, screenings, concerts and conferences. The forum has also clearly established itself as an open space for discussions, educational workshops and theatre meetings.