International Theatre and Dance Festival Alter Ego

Alter Ego International Theatre FestivalFounded in 2008 by director Nikolay Georgiev, Alter Ego International Theatre Festival has established itself as one of the leading platforms for alternative and experimental theatre in Bulgaria, with a strong and recognisable international profile. The festival takes place over five days in the centre of Sofia and presents a curated selection of the most significant alternative stage works from Europe and beyond, created during the previous year.Alter Ego is distinguished by its multi-layered format, structured around three core pillars.The performance programme features between 7 and 12 productions characterised by a strong authorial vision, experimental theatrical language, and a continuous search for new performative forms. The festival prioritises works that challenge conventional aesthetics and explore theatre as a living, transformative encounter.The discussion programme brings together theatre scholars, anthropologists, cultural managers and artists for thematic debates addressing the role of alternative theatre in contemporary society, current artistic trends, and the question: “Alternative theatre – an alternative to what?” A second discussion format focuses on in-depth analysis of the presented performances and functions as a professional platform for selection, networking and recommendations, supporting the mobility of artists within international festival circuits.The third key strand of Alter Ego is its workshop programme, aimed at professional development and knowledge exchange between Bulgarian and international artists. Through direct engagement with diverse methodologies and practices of internationally recognised creators, the festival actively supports the growth of emerging theatre professionals and fosters long-term artistic dialogue.Alter Ego contributes to the development of the creative economy by creating concrete opportunities for international exchange, professional networking and future co-productions. The presence of festival directors, curators and selectors positions the festival as an active networking hub, facilitating the international visibility of Bulgarian artists.All festival events are free of charge, ensuring broad public access, audience development and cultural inclusion, while providing high-quality artistic content to diverse communities.Over the years, Alter Ego has built sustainable international partnerships and attracted prominent artists and cultural professionals from around the world. The regular presence of leading directors, theorists and representatives of international theatre organisations further reinforces Alter Ego’s role as a significant meeting point for experimental theatre on a global scale.