Calling for Empathetic Cultural Practice in Performing Arts Festivals

The article advocates for empathetic cultural practice in performing arts festivals through the CURATE model, which provides a theoretical framework for dealing with contemporary fragile contexts characterised by polarisation and instability. The framework uses Fischer-Lichte's performativity theory, Turner's liminality concepts, and Malzacher's performative curating to redefine curators as ‘empathetic architects’ who create spaces for intercultural dialogue and authentic encounters. The CURATE model consists of six interconnected elements which transform traditional curatorial gatekeeping into care-based stewardship to establish festivals as healing spaces and intercultural mediators that build community resilience and meaningful connections during uncertain times.