World Theatre Day is an international observance held annually on March 27 to celebrate and promote the art of theatre and to strengthen the connection between society and theatre. The day was proclaimed in 1961 by the International Theatre Institute (ITI), established by UNESCO.

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History and Establishment

The International Theatre Institute (ITI) was established in 1948 and, in 1961, officially designated March 27 as World Theatre Day. In Türkiye, the first national statement was authored by Muhsin Ertuğrul, who devoted his life to theatre.

Celebration and Activities

World Theatre Day is celebrated in various countries through diverse events. Institutions such as the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality City Theatres present free performances on March 27, providing the public with an opportunity to engage with theatre. Prior to performances, national and international statements are read to the audience. Each year, theatre and arts professionals from ITI member countries prepare these statements. International statements are written by internationally acclaimed actors, directors or playwrights, translated into more than twenty languages and read in theatres before performances. The first international statement was authored in 1962 by the French artist Jean Cocteau.

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Statement Themes and Content

National statements emphasize the importance of theatre in communication, its contribution to the development of life and its role as a mirror to society. Audiences are encouraged to think, question and find solutions through theatre. International statements highlight the role of art in peace, originality and social solidarity. In a statement written by the Nobel Prize-winning author Jon Fosse, the theme “Art is peace” is explored, explaining the relationship between art, peace and originality.

Function of Theatre

Theatre brings to life the joys, sorrows, humorous and thought-provoking aspects of human experience on stage, offering both aesthetic and intellectual engagement. Serving an educational purpose, theatre contributes to social consciousness and critical thinking. World Theatre Day is organized to commemorate this universal role of theatre, to increase access to the art form and to emphasize the function of art in promoting peace and understanding.

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Turkish Theatre Tradition

Turkish theatre originated with various forms of performing arts, including orta oyunu, gölge oyunu (shadow plays), köy seyirlik oyunları (village theatrical performances), meddahlık (storytelling), and dance- or song-accompanied mimicry shows. This tradition laid the foundation for modern theatre in contemporary times.