International Online Festival of Amateur Theatre “THEATRE IS MY LOVE”

 

In this difficult time of the COVID-19 pandemic, the International Amateur Theatre Association (AITA/IATA) is concerned about the situation faced by amateur theatres across the world. Many festivals have been cancelled; amateur theatres cannot physically perform nor participate in International Festivals in other countries and are having to self-isolate. Many AITA/IATA Members and Associates have organised online theatre-related events by Zoom and other internet platforms. These include festivals, conferences, workshops, master classes and contests, and found these to be a very positive experience. The AITA/IATA Council, therefore, are promoting: “THEATRE IS MY LOVE”, an AITA/IATA International Online Festival of Amateur Theatre in partnership with CEC and NEATA.

 

This online festival is created to support amateur theatres in the current situation. It will enable amateur theatres to present a performance and see the work of other overseas theatre groups. We also hope it will show that theatre can respond artistically and innovatively to the limitations imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic. There will be an opportunity to listen and take part in discussions about the performances led by experienced theatre practitioners. Participants will meet international colleagues and discover what amateur theatre is today and how it works in a pandemic. There will also be an opportunity through a Forum for Theatre Directors to find out what amateur theatre needs in the current environment. Through the AITA/IATA network, we will discuss what can be done to avoid the loss of amateur theatre around the world and prevent a reduction in artistic quality.

This online festival “Theatre Is My Love” is held under the aegis of AITA/IATA through the organisational and creative support of CEC (Central European Committee) and NEATA (North European Amateur Theatre Alliance).