ALL OF EUROPE'S A STAGE!

WHAT THE PROJECT IS ABOUT

“All of Europe’s a Stage” is a dynamic youth drama project that aims to unite students from diverse cultural backgrounds through the art of theatre. By providing a platform for young people to express themselves, this initiative focuses on significant international themes such as immigration, identity, and climate change. The project encourages participants to explore and discuss their perspectives on these pressing issues while fostering friendships across borders.

IT STARTED LIKE THIS...

To celebrate the 75th anniversary of the Düsseldorf-Reading partnership, English Theatre Düsseldorf hosted a two-day workshop on September 24th-25th, 2022. Due to COVID-19 regulations, students from Reading and Düsseldorf engaged online rather than in person.

Twenty-five students aged 14-16 from the Goethe Gymnasium and RABBLE Theatre's Young Company divided into subgroups to explore the theme “The Future of Europe.” They conducted research and created a 20-30 minute performance on topics like assumptions and change, sharing their work via Zoom. This innovative format fostered connections and excitement despite the distance.

AND THEN, IN 2024...

In the second installment, eight students from Max-Planck Gymnasium traveled to Reading, UK, for a workshop on September 27th-29th, 2024. Working alongside RABBLE Theatre's Youth Company, students participated in theatre games and discussions, ending in short performances on the Sunday afternoon in front of the Mayor of Reading and parents.

Three themes emerged: immigration, history, and national identity. Each group created a performance that showcased their perspectives, culminating in a presentation for peers, workshop leaders, and parents. The experience enhanced students' creative skills while building cross-cultural friendships.

OUR GOALS FOR THE FUTURE:

Looking ahead, “All of Europe’s a Stage” aims to continue fostering international collaboration and creative expression among young people. The project will explore new themes relevant to today’s global landscape, providing students with the tools to navigate and comment on the world around them through the medium of theatre. By maintaining the connections formed during the workshops, we hope to inspire ongoing dialogue and understanding between diverse cultures.