Young Theater Festival in Bale: The Art of Play and Emotion

From 20 to 26 September 2026, Bale will once again host the Young Theater Festival, an international artistic and scientific event bringing together young artists, students, educators, researchers and professionals from Croatia and abroad.

This year’s edition is held under the theme “The Art of Play and Emotion”, focusing on the connection between theater and performing arts, psychology, creative therapies, and the fields of art and health. Through a diverse programme of workshops, lectures and practical activities, the Festival offers an opportunity to gain new knowledge, exchange experiences and develop artistic and professional skills.

Among this year’s mentors and lecturers are renowned artists and experts from Croatia and abroad, including theater and film actress Selma Alispahić, Canadian actor Filip Geljo, known for his roles in the Avatar sequels, British drama therapist Anna Seymour, and Romanian actor, director and professor András Hatházi, a long-standing Festival mentor.

The programme is intended for students and young artists, as well as anyone interested in participating, including teachers, educators, psychologists, creative therapists, parents and other professionals. A special part of the programme is dedicated to children and parents, with activities that encourage emotional literacy through play and creative expression.

Through its programme, the Festival explores how art, play, movement and creative expression can contribute to personal development, learning and individual well-being. Some activities will also take place outdoors, including psychological counselling while walking, further connecting the Festival’s artistic and educational programme with Bale and its surroundings.

The Young Theater Festival in Bale is organised by the Academy of Arts and Culture in Osijek, Josip Juraj Strossmayer University of Osijek, University of Split, Municipality of Bale – Valle, Tourist Board of Bale – Valle and Mon Perin d.d.

Registration for the workshops is now open. Information about the programme and registration is available through the official channels of the Young Theater Festival.