World Theater Day (27/03)

World Theater Day was established in 1961 by the IX Congress of the International Theater Institute (ITI) and is celebrated annually on March 27 by ITI Centers and international theater societies. Traditionally, it is held under a single motto: «Theater as a means of mutual understanding and strengthening peace between peoples».

The activities of the International Theater Institute (ITI), according to its charter, are aimed at «strengthening peace and friendship between peoples, expanding creative cooperation of all theater workers in the world».

Every year, by decision of the executive council of MIT, on the occasion of International Theater Day, the world's largest figures of world culture address the world theater community. The first international message in honor of World Theater Day was written in 1962 by the French writer and artist Jean Cocteau (French). Jean Cocteau, 1889—1963).

Today, the International Theater Institute at UNESCO — is the world's largest non-governmental organization dedicated to the performing arts. National centres, regional councils and committees are represented in nearly 100 countries worldwide. The Soviet Union received membership in MIT back in 1959. Since 1961, the USSR and then Russia — have been a permanent member of its executive committee.

As you know, the word «theater» comes from the ancient Greek word theatron (θέατρον), which means «the place where they watch». Traditionally, the theater plays the two most popular genres of — comedy and tragedy, the symbols of which are theatrical masks.

Bolshoi Theater in Moscow (Photo: Julia Shepeleva, licensed by Shutterstock.com)

The mention of the first theatrical production dates back to 2500 BC. The first theatrical game took place in Egypt, the plot was the images of Egyptian mythology — of the story of the god Osiris. This was the birth of a long and strong connection between theater and religion. In ancient Greece, theater began to be formed as an art, clear definitions of tragedy and comedy, as well as other theatrical forms, were established. Ancient Greek theatrical performances also used mythological imagery.

International Theater Day — is not just an international professional holiday for stage masters and all theater workers, it is our holiday — is a holiday for millions of caring spectators.

Of course, on the occasion of this wonderful Day, theaters in many countries around the world hold various theater festivals, festive productions and screenings of the best performances, and officials and members of the public do not skimp on congratulations and compliments addressed to theater workers and artistic groups on this day.



• Infographics – poster «March 27 — World Theater Day» • Story «Remember breathing»

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