All
AbouT
the Festival

Act I, Scene I:

A word after a word after a word is power

— Margaret Atwood

In April 2024, a bold new chapter began for theatre in Cyprus with the launch of the Cyprus International Theatre Festival (CITF). Featuring renowned artists like Kirill Serebrennikov, John Malkovich, Ivan Vyrypaev, and local director Paris Erotokritou. From its debut, CITF’s mission was clear: to deliver a world-class lineup of bold, exceptional theatre. Driven by artistic versatility, social engagement, and a love of experimentation, CITF aims to captivate, inspire, and spark thought in audiences across the island.

“We’re passionate about theatre and sharing that passion with the world! Join us on a journey brimming with discovery, self-reflection, and creative adventure—a journey that enriches Cyprus's vibrant cultural tapestry. Together, let’s elevate the arts and shape a future bursting with imagination, connection, and endless possibility!”

— Alexander Weinstein, Founder of CITF

Thank you for being a supporter!

We extend our sincere appreciation to those who have provided unwavering support since the inception of our journey:

Companies:
Marfields group, Art square, Sothbey’s Real Estate, RZLT agency

And individuals:
Gleb and Olga Rudenko, Katya and Ilya Korobkov, Andrey and Inna Manukovsky, Tony and Kate Dyachenko-Maisky, Christina Petrou, Yehezkel Lazarov, Evgeniya Barkova, Nadejda Tihonchuk, Melina Schini, Paris Erotokitou, Ekaterina Yakhimova, Lena Kakkoura, George Michael, Daphne Tang, Nikita Kukushkin, Maria Iole Karolidou, Ilya Solomin, Leonid Agron, Maria Kyriakou, Angelica Ourri, Garo Keheyan, George Papageorgiou, Alina Sokolova, Tatyana Romanyukha, Ivan Estegneev, Evgeny Kulagin, Ivan Grodetskiy, Yuriy Khivrich, Alena Shaidulina, Andreas Antonou, Anna Shalashova, Ariadna Butler, Darya Makurina, Taras Glushakov, Melina Schini, Marina Davydova, Leandros Papaphilippou, Mikhail Ponyatovsky, Evie Demetriou, George, Sergey Khodich, Veronica Kandaur, Anastasia Terentkova, Ivan Grodetsky, Christina Stylianou, Sofya Zlata, Elena Narbutz, Viktor Vilisov, Maria Makri, Anna Bibichadze, Anastasia Vasilieva, Ekaterina Dementieva, Alexandra Polyakova, Dimitris Loutsios and you!

Make believe

Act I, Scene II:

Art is not a mirror held up to reality but a hammer with which to shape it

— Bertolt Brecht

A word after a word after a word is power

— Margaret Atwood

At CITF, we believe that theatre transcends mere entertainment—it’s a force for discovery, invention, and change. Here’s how we live that belief:

At CITF, we Showcasing Groundbreaking Productions: By bringing in visionary creators from around the globe, CITF provides a stage for bold, boundary-pushing performances that redefine the essence of theatre.


Fostering Artistic Innovation: We champion artists willing to experiment and develop new storytelling approaches, providing them with a platform to ignite fresh perspectives in the world of theatre.


Engaging in Critical Dialogue: Through thought-provoking productions, we explore urgent social and political issues, inviting our audiences to reflect and engage in meaningful discussions.believe that theatre transcends mere entertainment—it’s a force for discovery, invention, and change. Here’s how we live that belief:

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Mission Possible

Act I, Scene III:

Please open the curtains.

— Sarah Kane, 4.48 Psychosis

The play’s the thing wherein I’ll catch the conscience of the king

— William Shakespeare, Hamlet

We are committed to elevating the performing arts. As CITF, we are focused on achieving the following goals:

Cultural Impact: CITF is on a mission to position Cyprus as a hub for exceptional theatre. With a diverse and compelling lineup, we aim to engage the island’s communities and make Cyprus a must-see destination on the European theatre festival map.

Professional Development: We’re building a foundation for growth by offering workshops, training, and collaboration opportunities to nurture the talents of both emerging and established theatre professionals.

Community Engagement: Through open performances, local events, and hands-on educational opportunities, CITF actively involves our local communities—from seasoned artists to aspiring talents and dedicated volunteers.

Social Change: We harness the transformative power of theatre to spark conversations on social, cultural, and political issues, believing wholeheartedly in the arts' capacity to inspire positive change.

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Spring Awakening

Act I, Scene IV:

The fog is clearing; life is a matter of taste

— Frank Wedekind, Spring’s Awakening

At CITF, we’re fuelled by ambition and a commitment to raising the bar each year. Our 2025 season reflects this dedication through a lineup of forward-thinking initiatives aimed at creating a dynamic, inclusive, and sustainable festival experience for all. Here’s what to expect:

Diverse Programming: We’re thrilled to showcase a vibrant mix of local and international productions, creating a festival that is both globally inspired and rooted in Cypriot culture. Alongside theatre, this year’s program expands into music, installations, and film, celebrating multiple art forms under one banner.


Accessibility and Outreach: CITF is expanding its footprint beyond Nicosia to bring captivating performances and events to major cities and regions across Cyprus, ensuring that theatre is accessible to communities far and wide.

Varied Venues: Our productions will take place in a diverse range of spaces—from traditional municipal theatres to unique outdoor locations—each thoughtfully chosen to enhance the experience of both the performance and the audience.

Engagement Across Age Groups: We’re creating a festival that speaks to all ages, with programming crafted to engage adults, children, and families alike.

Green Festival Initiative: CITF is deeply committed to environmental sustainability, leading by example as an eco-friendly festival that prioritizes sustainable practices in every aspect.

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You make beauty and it disappears; I love that.

— Caryl Churchill, Far Away