Prilep, 7 June 2025 (MIA) - Macedonian theatre festival "Vojdan Chernodrinski" is tradition, spiritual habit and a live debate on what kind of theatre we want to see and what kind of society we want to build, said Minister of Culture and Tourism Zoran Ljutkov at the opening of the festival's 59th edition in Prilep on Friday.

"Throughout these 59 years, theatre has continually moved forward, led by new generations of artists who bring fresh aesthetics, new forms and answer new questions. We should not see this as a threat, but on the contrary, as validation that theatre is alive. The institutions are here to consistently follow and support these processes," said Minister Ljutkov.

Artistic director Ana Stojanoska said the week-long festival is offering nine plays in the official competition, five in the independent category, along with promotions, new content, roundtable discussions and a programme titled "Prilep in Focus".

Prilep Mayor Borche Jovcheski said the festival brings economic benefit for the city, but most importantly spirit and pride, adding it is "a tradition but also an inspiration. For Macedonia, it is a symbol of continuity, quality and love for theatre, creating room for new artistic languages, new visions, new generations of actors and directors, as well as space for dialogue and unity."

Life achievement awards were presented to actors Snezhana Koneska Rusi, Sonja Mihajlova and Goce Todorovski, followed by play "12" of the Macedonian National Theatre, directed by Sinisha Evtimov.

Photo: MIA