“Embrace and Connect” with the 37th ITI World Congress

The 37th International Theatre Institute (ITI) World Congress, themed “Embrace and Connect,” is set to take place from September 18 to 23, 2024, in Antwerp, Belgium (Flanders) and Den Bosch, The Netherlands. This landmark event aims to bring together performing arts enthusiasts from around the world, creating a platform to foster connections, cultural exchange, and collaboration. With a focus on the transformative power of the performing arts, the Congress promises to be an enriching experience for all participants.

One of the key features of this year’s Congress is its deep integration with the local performing arts communities. Participants will have the opportunity to network with local artists, festival directors, and cultural professionals. The Congress will also include meet-and-greet sessions, showcases of local youth theatre, music, dance, and social projects, as well as performances in local theater venues and theatrical city walks. These engagements will offer participants a unique chance to connect with artists and experience the local cultural landscape while building global unity through the arts.

The 37th ITI World Congress marks the first time the event spans two countries, supported by the City of Antwerp and Tourism Flanders, alongside partners such as DeSingel, Het Paleis, and Toneelhuis.

The Congress will feature two prominent keynote speakers who are shaping the global landscape of performing arts.

Milo Rau, artistic director of Wiener Festwochen and artist in residence at NTGent, will deliver a keynote speech titled “How to Resist – or Why the Only Answer to Nationalism is Global and Diverse” on the morning of September 19. Rau is widely known for his provocative and politically charged productions, such as La Reprise and Antigone in the Amazon. He has received numerous awards for his work and is a driving force in promoting cultural diversity and resistance through art.

Luanda Casella, a writer, performing artist, and theater director from São Paulo, will present her keynote titled “Aesthetics of Speculation”. Based in Ghent and a house artist at NTGent, Casella is celebrated for her innovative storytelling, which deconstructs language and explores how narrative shapes our perception of the world. Her critically acclaimed performances, including Short of Lying and Ferox Tempus, have been showcased at major international festivals.

A diverse array of workshops will also be part of the Congress, offering participants the chance to engage with industry leaders and explore critical topics in the arts. Highlights include:

• “Things I Learned About My (He)art Practice” by Daphne Laan, focusing on how to follow your heart in creative work and catalyze positive change globally.
• “Things I Learned About Power and Care” by Tunde Adefioye, exploring themes of cultural education and social justice in the performing arts.
• “Five Things I Have Learned About Intercultural Cooperation” by Maurits Wijffels, providing practical insights into effective intercultural collaboration.
• “Things I Learned About How Artists Can Save the World” by Merlijn Twaalfhoven, advocating for the use of artistic mindsets to address societal challenges and create lasting change.

With its rich schedule of keynotes, workshops, and cultural engagements, the 37th ITI World Congress is set to inspire and empower participants as they explore the vital role of the performing arts in shaping our world.