TIP Academy Lisbon 2023: Testimonies from Maria and Arnau

Organized by JÁ International Theatre, the 2023 edition of the TIP Academy brought together members of the Theatre in Palm platform, along with local and online artists, for a three-day event in Lisbon. The program featured a dynamic lineup of inspiring workshops and masterclasses designed to foster creativity, collaboration, and artistic growth.

ESPRONCEDA Institute of Art and Culture was proudly represented by María Solá Estrada and Arnau Guillén Carulla at the Academy, and the artists shared their personal experiences from this transformative event. Below, you’ll find their testimonials:

Maria’s Experience

“I was lucky to attend JÁ Fest and JÁ Academy in Lisbon from April 10th to April 14th. These four days were filled with culture, theatre, vitality, companionship, sensitivity, and creativity—four magnificent days. Thanks to this opportunity, I was able to participate in different workshops: Wednesday’s movement workshop was a fun way to enter the world of choreography; the three-day Puppetry workshop was a fantastic and magical introduction to the world of puppetry; and on Thursday, we enjoyed a Yoga for Dancers class, which opened up a new world that I am eager to continue exploring. Additionally, we were fortunate to watch different performances, discovering new ways of storytelling and connecting with people. If I had to choose one thing that stood out from these four days, it would be the amazing people I had the pleasure of meeting—people committed to storytelling, with whom we created creative bonds that I am sure will lead to more adventures together. In short, an unforgettable experience.”

Arnau’s Experience

“When I think of the days at JÁ Fest and JÁ Academy from April 10th to 14th in Lisbon, the first thing that comes to mind is all the different people we met there, who invited us to discover a little more about their world and creativity, while also showing interest in learning from what we could offer. It was a wonderful exchange in which we explored our inner world through objects in the Puppetry workshop, played and connected with movement in the Hinge On workshop, and discovered the intricacies of our bodies thanks to the union of yoga and dance in Yoga for Dancers. We also attended various performances, each with its own unique language and way of expressing and conveying messages, always related to the personal and social concerns of contemporary artists. All of this took place in the lively and beautiful setting of Lisbon. In short, it was a unique experience that will always hold a special place in my memory.”