INTERNATIONAL CHILDREN’S THEATRE FESTIVAL OPENS IN BANJA LUKA

BANJA LUKA – Minister of Education and Culture, Borivoje Golubović, officially opened the 24th International Children’s Theatre Festival this evening at the Children’s Theatre of the Republic of Srpska in Banja Luka. In his opening remarks, he emphasized the importance of cultural development for children and expressed particular satisfaction with the participation of theatres from 12 countries, including Russia.

PHOTO: SRNA

“Children are our greatest treasure. In the coming period, we will give our full support to ensure their development in both cultural and all other aspects,” said Minister Golubović.

Director of the Children’s Theatre, Ljiljana Labović Marinković, highlighted the significant interest shown by the audience and theatre companies alike. She announced that 14 performances from 12 countries will be staged until the festival’s closing on October 11.

“We are proving that theatre is strong and influential in the Republic of Srpska. When we travel abroad, we bring back awards. Now, we’re proud to show we are also excellent hosts. Through this, we are building a future for the children of the Republic of Srpska,” said Labović Marinković.

Festival selector Duško Mazalica noted a record-breaking number of applications this year.

“For the first time, we received submissions from 50 theatres across 24 countries. This elevates the quality of the festival to a new level,” said Mazalica.

The festival will present several awards, including the Grand Prix for Best Overall Performance, as well as prizes for Best Direction, Set Design, Music, five equal Acting Awards, and the special “Dragan Banjac” award for the most humorous acting performance.