Α week full of Theatre In Lisbon
Andrianna-Anna Tsiotsiou, Cube’s participant in Lisbon’s Theatre Academy.
Exploring Boundaries: Andriana’s Insights from Theatre Academy at JAFest23 in Lisbon
The journey began unexpectedly in February 2023 when I found myself immersed in an online residency organized by Theatre In Palm. Alongside five talented Greek artists, we collaborated remotely with artists from Bulgaria and Belgium, exploring themes inspired by Sophocles’ Antigone. This initial experience laid the groundwork for an exciting journey that culminated in a transformative week in Lisbon at Theatre Academy during JAFest23.
Upon arriving in Lisbon on April 10th, the adventure was just beginning. The city welcomed me with open arms, and over the next six days, I had the privilege of participating in a series of enriching workshops designed for young European artists.
Theatre Workshops That Shaped Creativity
One of the highlights was Elena Vertegel’s moving workshop, which set the tone for the entire week. Her guidance helped shape a collective energy, allowing participants to dive deeper into their creative processes. I gained invaluable tools that I could apply directly to my performances with my theatre groups back in Greece, enhancing my artistic approach and broadening my perspective on storytelling.
Another memorable experience was the Puppetry Workshop led by Maiju-Karolina Tainio. Over three days, we explored a unique form of expression using ball-head puppets. From crafting our own puppets using kraft paper to bringing them to life through improvisation and spontaneous storytelling, the workshop offered a refreshing departure from traditional theatre. This experience opened new avenues for creativity and taught me to embrace spontaneity in performance.
Expanding Horizons: Set Design and Poetry Film
The Set Design workshop, taught by Miguel Sa Fernandes, offered a hands-on approach to scenography with a focus on Jean-Paul Sartre’s No Exit. Collaborating with fellow participants, we designed models for the play’s staging, gaining insights into the complexity and diversity of design interpretations. The discussion that followed my presentation helped refine my understanding of scenography, providing valuable lessons as I continue to work as a dramaturg alongside directors.
One of the most captivating workshops was the Poetry Film course with filmmaker Janet Lees. This genre of cinema, blending poetry, sound, and visual elements using simple tools like smartphones, was entirely new to me. The workshop opened my eyes to innovative methods of expression and sparked ideas for future artistic projects that incorporate poetry and visual storytelling.
The Importance of Networking and Collaboration
Beyond the workshops, JAFest23 provided invaluable opportunities for networking and collaboration. Organized by Suresh Nampuri and Georgia Beckmann, meetings at Teatro do Bairro allowed us to connect deeply with fellow artists, exchange ideas, and discuss the current state of contemporary art. Watching performances by artists from various countries further reinforced the shared passion and the beauty of cross-cultural artistic dialogue.
Additionally, the guided tour focused on the life and works of poet Fernando Pessoa, led by contemporary poet Chiara Chrisafouli, was a remarkable experience. Through this, we delved into Pessoa’s distinctive personality and his contributions to Portuguese poetry, providing a unique perspective on his literary legacy.
The workshops, performances, and networking events throughout JAFest23 were thoughtfully curated, fostering an environment where creativity flourished. Each experience, whether it was learning new techniques or forming bonds with like-minded artists, added valuable layers to our artistic journeys. The ease of participation across various levels meant that everyone could engage deeply, embracing the challenge and excitement of artistic exploration.
What stands out most is not only the knowledge gained but the friendships and collaborations forged. Meeting fellow artists who share a passion for theatre has inspired dreams of future projects and collective growth in the arts.
To everyone who made this week in Lisbon possible—thank you. The journey left me enriched with new ideas, deeper connections, and a renewed sense of purpose in my artistic endeavors. Listen Andrianna-Anna talking about some of her experiences in Lisbon:
