World Theatre Day

World Theatre Day History

World Theatre Day celebrates the art form that bridges cultural differences and brings people together through shared performances and experiences. Instituted by the International Theatre Institute (ITI), the observance aims to promote the art of theater, recognize the work of theater artists, and to create awareness about the value that theater can add to society. Key aspects of this day include promoting global exchange of art and culture, portraying societal issues through theater, and stimulating creativity and innovation in theater arts.

The concept of World Theatre Day was first proposed in 1961 at the 9th World Congress of ITI in Vienna. Accordingly, the celebration has been observed annually on the 27th of March since 1962. For theater artists and enthusiasts in America, World Theatre Day is an opportunity to appreciate the rich history and cultural diversity that American theater possesses. It also serves as a platform to voice social and political issues, creating a robust dialogue among various communities across the nation.

In America, World Theatre Day is observed through different activities such as theatrical performances, workshops, panel discussions, auditions, and networking events that connect artists, theater groups, educational institutions, and audiences. Artists and theaters across the country use this day to shine a spotlight on the power of storytelling and the role it plays in transforming societies. World Theatre Day occurs annually on March 27th.

Facts about World Theatre Day

• The message author for World Theatre Day in 2022 was Peter Sellars. Peter Sellars is an opera, theatre, and festival director who was born and raised In Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He has won many awards such as the prestigious Polar Music Prize and has been named Artist of the Year by Musical America.
• According to the International Theatre Institute, World Theatre Day has five goals:
  1) To promote theatre in all its forms across the world.
  2) To make people aware of the value of theatre in all its forms.
  3) To enable theatre communities to promote their work on a broad scale so that governments and opinion leaders are aware of the value and importance of dance in all its forms and support it.
  4) To enjoy theatre in all its forms for its own sake.
  5) To share the joy for theatre with others.
• The oldest theatre in the world is the Teatro Olimpico (Olympic Theater) in Vicenza, Italy. It is the world's first indoor theatre. It was designed by the architect André Palladio and built between 1580 and 1585.
• According to Top View NYC, the highest grossing Broadway show of all time is The Lion King, which has earned $1.5 billion since its debut 1997.

In the News and Trending in the US for World Theatre Day

Top things to do in the US for World Theatre Day

• Watch the 2021 World Theatre Day performances if you missed them.
• Read Helen Mirren's 2021 World Theatre Day Message if you didn't get the chance to already.
• Get inspired by these inspirational moments from World Theatre Day 2021.