From 11th to 15th of March the Erasmus+ Study Visit “Non Formal LAB Theatre Edition” was held in Södertälje, Sweden. Youth workers from Macedonia, Italy, Sweden, Greece, Poland, Portugal, Romania and Lithuania were brought together to get inspired and develop new ideas for their line of work.
The idea of the SV was to utilize theatre as a dynamic learning method. I found myself immersed in a world where creativity knows no bounds and where the stage serves as a platform for both artistic expression and profound education.
I would like to point out our visit to the renowned royal theatre in Stockholm. As we stepped into the halls, we were greeted by so much history. Yet, what truly captivated me was the opportunity to peek behind the curtains and witness the process of creating a show with all its intricacies, like the precision required in stage lighting, the sewing of costumes and the patience of wig creation. Every aspect of theatre production was laid bare before us. Seeing the dedication, the artistry and the mastery of those who toil behind the scenes, ensuring that every performance goes well, was an absolutely great experience.
Equally enlightening was our exploration of Subtopia, a creative cluster of innovation where the traditional boundaries of the stage are pushed to their limits. What struck me most about Subtopia was its commitment to inclusivity and experimentation. From dance stages to circus performances, there was a sense of freedom and possibility permeating every corner of this space. It was a reminder that theatre is not confined to a stage but can transcend physical boundaries to become a force for social change and empowerment.
All in all, each and every participant came out with lasting memories and tons of inspiration about how to use theatre as an effective and engaging learning tool.