We locate ourselves in the year 1948, the moment when the International Theatre Institute was founded by theatre professionals and UNESCO. It stands as one of the most influential global organizations, gathering aims of understanding and advocacy for the protection and promotion of every cultural and artistic expression. The organization promotes International Dance Day on April 29 and World Theatre Day on March 27, dates observed since 1961.
This date is commemorated with events, performances, and the reading of an annual message crafted by a notable figure reflecting on the themes of theatre and culture. This year the author is the Norwegian writer and playwright Jon Fosse, who titles his message The Art Is Peace.
In summary, the piece asserts that every person is unique while also sharing universal traits with others. It explores the connection between body and spirit, the earthly and what transcends material limits. Great art, in its own way, brings together what is singular and what is universal. It breaks down language barriers and geographic boundaries, and it highlights our differences with a vision free from violent conflicts, terrorism, and war that often thrive on the urge to destroy the unfamiliar, the unique, and the different.
Jon Fosse notes that the animal side of humans sometimes turns the strange into a threat to their own existence. War becomes the struggle against what lies deepest in each person, the very essence of art itself. Art in its broad sense, not only drama. He completes his reflection by returning to the central idea suggested by the title of his message.
We can state that on the upcoming March 27 there is nothing planned at the Principal Theater in Alicante or at the Teatre Arniches in this town. It does not appear to be the best way to celebrate World Theatre Day or to publicly share the corresponding manifesto before the many enthusiasts in our city.
Nevertheless, the Philosophy and Letters Library and the University’s Cultural Services have organized several activities that can be seen from the 12th to the 27th. A bibliographic exhibition to mark the Second Conference on Theatrical Teaching and Research, and a display of posters of works performed at the Classical Theatre Festival of Alcudia, which takes place in July since 2013, and supported by the UA, in addition to a commemorative video.
That is the current state of affairs as this article is drafted. More or less.