TIP in Cyprus: FAT – Confronting Fatphobia Through Contemporary Theatre
Cyprus Theatre Organisation contributed to the Theatre in Palm Project‘s Roadshow, by presenting two performances of the play FAT. Written by up-and-coming playwright Zoe Apostolidou and directed by Elena Sokratous, FAT is a bold exploration of fatphobia and its devastating effects on young people, particularly through the lens of a teenager navigating a world full of prejudice and exclusion.
About the Show: FAT presents the story of Frixos, a 17-year-old teenager who experiences bullying and social exclusion because of his physical appearance. His strained relationships with his close friend Effie and his mother only add to his emotional turmoil. Outside of these interactions, Frixos engages in social life exclusively online, hiding his true identity from the world. As the play unfolds, it exposes the hurtful impact of fatphobia, stigmatization, and bullying, while also offering a sharp critique of society’s narrow perceptions of body image.
Written in a contemporary teenage voice, FAT directly confronts the issue of fatphobia, offering a raw and honest portrayal of the emotional consequences of societal pressures. The play challenges stereotypes and promotes inclusivity, encouraging young audiences to rethink the harmful attitudes that contribute to body shaming and exclusion.
Creative Team:
- Writer: Zoe Apostolidou
- Director: Elena Sokratous
- Production: A talented and youthful team of creators worked together to bring the important themes of FAT to life, tackling sensitive issues with care and intention.
Performances in Cyprus: FAT premiered in Cyprus with performances at Theatro Apothikes in Nicosia in February 2024. Starting on 22 February 2024, the production engaged high school students with special performances, followed by public shows on 24 February 2024 and 25 February 2024.
Public Performances:
- Saturday 24 February 2024 at 6:00 PM and 8:30 PM
- Sunday 25 February 2024 at 6:00 PM
Location: Theatro Apothikes, Nicosia
Special Performances for High Schools:
- From 22 February 2024
After its success in Cyprus, FAT continued its journey making its international debut at the ETC International Theatre Conference & Young Europe IV Festival in Nova Gorica, Slovenia, from 17 to 21 April 2024. The performance offered the Cyprus team a valuable opportunity to share their work with an international audience and engage in a wider European dialogue on issues of diversity and inclusion in theatre.
Through its sensitive exploration of fatphobia and body diversity, FAT sparked important conversations and educated young audiences about the importance of inclusivity. The Theatre Roadshow, as part of the Theatre in Palm Project, continues to be a vital initiative for promoting cultural exchange, amplifying diverse voices, and encouraging meaningful conversation across European theatre communities.
