“Nikola Vaptsarov” Drama Theatre has signed a grant agreement worth 18 million BGN under the “Regional Development” Programme 2021–2027, co-financed by the European Union through the European Regional Development Fund, with Project No. BG16FFPR003-1.001-0010 “Modernisation of the ‘Nikola Vaptsarov’ Drama Theatre for Sustainable and Integrated Development of Culture, Cultural Tourism and Creative Industries in Blagoevgrad.”
The project will be implemented as part of the long-term vision to transform the “Nikola Vaptsarov” Drama Theatre into a modern regional cultural centre with a forward-looking perspective. Project partners include: RCA “Presto”, the Vocational High School of Construction, Architecture and Geodesy “Vasil Levski” – Blagoevgrad, the National Humanitarian High School “St. St. Cyril and Methodius” – Blagoevgrad, and the Association “In Focus”. Public procurement procedures for design, construction, equipment, and furnishing are forthcoming.
According to the long-standing director of the state cultural institution, a comprehensive modernisation of the theatre’s two buildings is about to begin – the main building in the centre of Blagoevgrad and the scenery production base in the “Gramada” district. In this way, the “Nikola Vaptsarov” Drama Theatre is entering a new era of its development – with modern halls, green solutions, and spaces open to young artists and audiences. The emblematic historic theatre building will be transformed into a contemporary cultural venue that will inspire and attract audiences of all ages, while the production base will be turned into a multicultural centre with educational programmes for young people.
According to Margarita Macheva, the concept and vision for the theatre building must be based on combining respect for architectural heritage with innovative solutions that will enhance the functionality, comfort, and aesthetics of the theatre. The implementation of the project will contribute to the development of cultural life in the region, create new opportunities for artists, and strengthen the theatre’s position as an important cultural centre within the community.
The project includes major renovation, the implementation of energy-efficient solutions, modern technological systems, and the creation of a fully accessible architectural environment. Special attention will be given to the modernisation of all three auditoriums so that they meet contemporary professional, technical, and comfort standards – for the artists, the team, and the audience.
Among the new sustainable solutions is the creation of green roof spaces, which will contribute to a better microclimate, reduced energy costs, and the aesthetic enhancement of the architecture.
A particularly important focus is placed on the transformation of the production and storage base into an innovative cultural centre for working with students and young people. The spaces will be adapted for educational programmes, theatre workshops, youth productions, and creative activities that encourage the active participation of young people in the cultural life of the city.
This is yet another proof of the successful management of the cultural institution in recent years. The “Nikola Vaptsarov” Drama Theatre – Blagoevgrad is strengthening its position as a leading contemporary cultural centre, and this achievement is the result of teamwork, an innovative approach, and constant dedication and commitment to high standards.
The “Nikola Vaptsarov” Drama Theatre – Blagoevgrad extends its gratitude to all partners, audiences, and supporters who share our vision, support our initiatives, and have stood by us throughout the years!
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This document has been created within the framework of Project No. BG16FFPR003-1.001-0010 “Modernisation of the Drama Theatre ‘Nikola Vaptsarov’ for Sustainable and Integrated Development of Culture, Cultural Tourism and Creative Industries in Blagoevgrad,” implemented with the financial support of the “Regional Development” Programme 2021–2027, co-financed by the European Union through the European Regional Development Fund. The entire responsibility for the content of this publication lies with the “Nikola Vaptsarov” Drama Theatre – Blagoevgrad, and under no circumstances can it be considered to reflect the official opinion of the European Union and the Managing Authority of the RDP 2021–2027.
