World Theatre Day

World Theatre Day History

World Theatre Day seeks to honour theatre as a medium of art, culture, and social commentary. Conceived by the International Theatre Institute (ITI), it aims to celebrate the value and importance of theatre, drawing attention to its potential to unite and provoke positive change in society across the globe. This global observance is designed to highlight the significant role theatre artists can play in promoting international peace, cross-cultural exchange, and mutual understanding.

The establishment of World Theatre Day dates back to 1961, marking generations of reverence for theatre arts. For the United Kingdom, this observance holds special significance. The country's rich, centuries-old theatre culture, ranging from the infamous Globe Theatre of Shakespearean times to the contemporary West End productions, has deeply influenced its social fabric. Moreover, UK's theatre industry has spread its influence worldwide with renowned plays, playwrights, and actors who have made an indelible mark on global theatre history. Hence, World Theatre Day not only honours the practitioners within the field but also invites every Briton to acknowledge the theatrical heritage that the country holds.

In the United Kingdom, World Theatre Day is celebrated with much gusto. Theatres, drama schools, and cultural centres often host a variety of activities such as special performances, workshops, and discussions revolving around theatre and its impact. The National Theatre in London, in particular, stands at the forefront of these celebrations. These events aim to increase public engagement and awareness of the art form while showcasing the talent and potential that UK theatre has to offer. Each year, World Theatre Day is observed on the 27th of March, echoing throughout the islands of the United Kingdom with passion, creativity, and a shared love for theatre.

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 London that is still in use today is Theatre Royal Drury Lane, which opened in 1663. On World Theatre Day, special performances are often held at this historic venue.
• The first performance in a purpose-built London theatre was in 1576, at The Theatre, Shoreditch. Today, London's West End houses some of the world's best theatre performances, akin to Broadway in New York.

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

Top things to do in the UK 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.
• Visit the West End Theatre: Enjoy a performance at one of the numerous theatres in this district, known as the Broadway of London.
• Attend The International Theatre Festival: In London, a multiple-day festival is organised involving theatre groups from all around the world. The performances vary dramatically with everything from traditional drama to contemporary, experimental works.