"The goal is to show what we can do without being judged": the World Theatre Festival returns to Monaco in August with troupes from 18 countries

The World Theatre Championship is a bit like the Olympic Games of amateur performance, but without a podium or medal at the end of the competition. And especially without a confrontation.

Held every four years in Monaco since 1957, this unique festival brings together troupes from five continents.

While only France, Italy and the United States have participated in all previous editions, this year there is room for diversity: Armenia is entering the scene for the first time with a performance by Charles Bukowski.

" The Mondial is the kaleidoscope of amateur theater. Here, there is no imposed theme, genre, or style. The goal is to show what we can do without being judged ," explains Patrice Cellario, the event's general curator.

A cultural logic specific to each country

After receiving 62 applications, the organizers, the Monaco Studio and representatives of the International Amateur Theatre Association (AITA), a total of 8 people, selected 18 troupes from different countries.

What are the criteria? " The first is the quality of the show. Then, the technical feasibility in Monaco. Finally, the show must fit into the cultural logic specific to the country. All the pieces performed are viewed on video beforehand for the final selection ," explains Patrice Cellario.

Admission to the performances is free and subject to availability, with festival-goers having priority.

" Some of them still traveled thousands of kilometers, and at their own expense ," the general commissioner defends. This is indeed one of the criteria for being able to participate in this World Cup: being an amateur and paying for the trip yourself.

On the other hand, accommodation is covered for six days by AITA, up to a maximum of 10 people per troop.

A theatrical marathon

The World Cup is based on a well-oiled triptych: confrontation, exchange, and teaching. As for the shows, the 18 troupes will each perform twice—that's 36 performances in one week—to allow everyone to see everything, even the artists themselves.

No competition, but a true theater marathon. And it's free, subject to availability. Performances will take place at 6 p.m. daily, alternating between the Princess Grace Theater and the Variety Theater.

There's just one piece of advice for spectators: remember to book in advance. A helpful QR code will help, or you can go directly to the event website.

The second act takes place in the morning: symposia. Held at the Rainier III Auditorium between 9:45 a.m. and 12:30 p.m., these discussions decipher the previous day's plays. They discuss staging, the functioning of the troupes, and the creative process.

New in 2025: streaming in three languages ​​(French, English, Spanish) to expand the audience.

Workshops to improve your skills

In the afternoon, the curtain rises on the workshops. Two proposals this year: " Theatre is a Painting in Motion ," invites actors to bring famous paintings to life, starting with "The Raft of the Medusa." The second proposal: " Myths on Stage ," draws on Greek mythology to work on voice, chorus, and stage movement.

At the same time, the ^41st Congress of the International Association of Amateur Theatre will be held in the same auditorium on 23 August, with the aim of electing the new president of the association.

As the spotlights prepare to shine on the Monaco stage, one thing is clear: here, you don't need a Molière or a Tony (the American equivalent) to shine. The only challenge is to share.