“Targets” in Nicosia: A Stage for Dialogue and Discovery

When Bulgarian theatre collective Artikus took the stage at the theatre festival in Nicosia, Cyprus, they weren’t just presenting a show—they were opening a space for reflection, tension, and conversation. Their psychological two-hander “Targets” invited the audience into a charged atmosphere of emotional complexity and quiet confrontation. Representing Bulgaria with a deeply personal and honest performance, Artikus sparked a connection that lingered well beyond the curtain call.

“We didn’t just want to tell a story,” they shared. “We wanted to raise questions—about loyalty, morality, human connection. ‘Targets’ gave us the space to do that, and the festival gave us the audience ready to receive it.”

Surrounded by theatre artists from across Europe, the company found the experience both creatively rich and personally meaningful. “The energy in Nicosia was something special. The audience was sharp, emotionally present, and fully engaged in the performance. You could feel the exchange happening—not just between us on stage, but between us and them.”

Photo by Antonis G. Antoniou

For Artikus, being part of the festival wasn’t just about showcasing their work—it was about participating in a wider artistic dialogue. “It was an honor to represent our country, to bring a piece of our artistic identity into this shared European space. We left inspired, challenged, and full of ideas for what’s next.”

What began as a performance ended as a conversation—and “Targets” hit exactly where it needed to.