3d November The National Theatre “Ivan Vazov” takes part in the main programme of the Balkan theatre festival 2025 with MEDEA by Euripides — a production by world-acclaimed British director Declan Donnellanwith Radina Kurdjilova in the main role.
Declan Donnellan (co-founder of theatre company Cheek by Jowl together with the set designer Nick Ormerod) is among the most influential European directors of the late 20th and early 21st centuries. His work is distinguished by its precise rhythm, meticulous composition, and deep actor collaboration. Medea is his first production on a Bulgarian stage, bringing together
Medea comes to life as a contemporary human drama — a story about humiliation, dignity, and the ultimate decision. Donnellan chooses to bring the audience as close to the action as possible: the spectators sit on the very stage, among the actors, becoming the “citizens of Corinth.” Thus, the tragedy is experienced up close — without effects, relying solely on the actor, the word, and the body.
Radina Kurdjilova creates a precise and uncompromising portrayal, far from the cliché of “mythical monstrosity.” Her Medea is a real woman, faced with an impossible choice, whose iron logic leads to an act that is horrifying yet utterly consistent. The role has already been distinguished with nomination for "Ikar" Award 2025 in the "Leading Female Role" category.
Cast: Velislav Pavlov, Valentin Ganev, Asen Dankov, Yavor Vulkanov, Stelian Radev, Vyara Tabakova, Radena Vulkanova, Zhoreta Nikolova, Stefania Koleva, Elena Ivanova, Nadya Keranova, Ana Papadopulu, as well as the children Nikola Sardzhev and Petar Sardzhev (understudies: Boris Petrishki, Boyan Chelebiev).
Tickets and Information
The official opening of the festival is on 1st November at 19.00 at "Georgi Izmirliev" sq. (free entrance) and you can watch "Medea" at the third evening of the festival (3rd November) at 19.00 on the stage of "Nikola Vaptsaov" Drama TheatreThe performance will be with English subtitles..
Tickets can be purchased at the theatre’s box office and online at dtblagoevgrad.com.
The Balkan Theatre Festival brings together outstanding companies and directors from Bulgaria, Serbia, North Macedonia, and Romania to showcase the most powerful and innovative theatrical explorations of the region.
From November 1 to 7, Blagoevgrad will become a stage for cultural dialogue and theatrical experimentation, featuring one performance each evening and a series of special accompanying events.
The Balkan Theatre Festival is carried out with the financial support of Ministry of culture and National Culture Fund - "Festivals" Program 2024.
Спонсори: Търговска верига „Фантастико“, „Войнишки“ ООД, Хитачи Енерджи, СД „Лирик – Папалюгови и сие“, Еко Ферма Укеви, Фермерски магазин Rila Angus Farm, Villa Daros.
Partners: Park Bachinovo Hotel, Hotel Diva, Logodaj Winery, Staroto Photo, Hotel Alpha, BNT (Bulgarian National Television), ArtAkciq, BNR Blagoevgrad (Bulgarian National Radio).
