Stages of Connection: How Cyprus Became a Canvas for Art, Growth, and Friendship
CUBE’s participant, Agapi Iosifidou writes…
April 10th, 2025 – A Journey Begins
Our adventure started with excitement in the air as I met Evangelia at the airport. We were buzzing with anticipation, already discussing and rehearsing our lines for the festival presentation. Somewhere above the Cyclades, peeking down from the plane, we tried to spot our island—the one from our story—but each island seemed to blend into the next. It felt symbolic somehow, like our journey was already weaving new stories together.
Upon arriving in Cyprus, everything unfolded smoothly. We made our way to a lovely hotel in the heart of Nicosia. Clean, central, and cozy—it quickly became our home base. With no formal plans that afternoon, we explored the city streets, soaking up the local vibes before enjoying a relaxed dinner. The calm before the creative storm.
April 11th, 2025 – Cultural Crossroads
We started the day with a stroll through Nicosia’s city center, eventually finding ourselves at the Leventis Municipal Museum. The exhibits offered a profound glimpse into the complex, beautiful history of Cyprus—a country that has endured much yet remains vibrant and culturally rich.
Later, we boarded a bus with fellow participants, heading to the THOC warehouses, the festival’s venue. Right away, connections sparked. The organizers and artists from across Europe welcomed us warmly, and conversations flowed naturally. It was clear: this was not just a festival; it was a community.
Presentations filled the rest of the day—thoughtful, creative, and diverse. Each interaction was a chance to learn, to share, and to be inspired. As night fell, we returned to Nicosia full of ideas and new friendships.
April 12th, 2025 – A Day of Artistic Discovery
Saturday was a whirlwind of performances, from morning until late evening. Each show reflected the soul of its creators—whether it was a duet from Poland, a solo from Finland, or a movement piece from Spain. Between performances, we had time to chat, reflect, and prepare.
There was a powerful sense of respect and admiration in the air. Every piece, no matter how different, felt essential to the festival’s rich tapestry. We witnessed so many ways to tell a story, to move an audience, to connect.
April 13th, 2025 – Stepping into the Spotlight
Our final day was filled with both excitement and nerves—it was our turn to perform. We arrived early for rehearsals, organizing props, and sorting out the technical details. Thankfully, the THOC team supported us at every step with patience and warmth.
As we watched performances from Bulgaria and Poland, our anticipation built. We were the closing act.
Performing always fills me with energy. Despite the anxiety, I felt alive, ready to give everything I had. This time, it felt more personal, more meaningful. We weren’t just presenting to an audience; we were sharing with friends, fellow artists we had come to admire.
The post-performance Q&A was a new and liberating experience. The thoughtful questions and encouragement from others made me realize how deeply we had all connected. It wasn’t just about the work—it was about the exchange, the mutual respect.
That evening, we were treated to a professional performance at the Cyprus Theatre Organisation. It was breathtaking. The level of artistry inspired me deeply, reaffirming my passion for the stage.
The night ended in celebration—dancing, singing, farewells, and promises to meet again.
The Festival’s Legacy: Fuel for a Lifelong Artistic Journey
This festival wasn’t just an event—it was a turning point in my artistic journey. Through the support of the EU program, I gained exposure to international theatre practices, diverse forms of storytelling, and the power of collaboration across cultures.
Performing abroad, especially in such a creatively charged environment, strengthened my confidence and opened my eyes to new artistic possibilities. I learned how to adapt quickly, communicate across language barriers, and remain true to my artistic voice in a new setting.
The experience showed me how vital it is to build networks with artists from different backgrounds. These connections are more than just friendships—they are the seeds of future collaborations, ideas, and growth.
The festival also taught me the importance of flexibility, professionalism, and resilience in a live, international context. From managing technical challenges to embracing new ways of thinking about theatre, I gained skills that I will carry forward in my career.
This journey has inspired me to think bigger, to pursue opportunities beyond borders, and to continue evolving as an artist who values both tradition and innovation. I’m leaving Cyprus not only with unforgettable memories but with a renewed sense of purpose and direction.
April 14th, 2025 – Until We Meet Again
Departure came too soon. As we boarded the plane back home, I felt a mix of gratitude and longing. Cyprus, with its warmth, art, and unforgettable people, had given me something priceless. I hope our paths cross again—on stage, in life, somewhere in this beautiful world of theatre.
