**Four Nicosia Performances Not to Miss This Month**
The Nicosia International Festival is set to commence on September 12, bringing an exciting array of theatre, dance, music, and performances to the capital city for a duration of 50 days. This year, the festival will showcase 22 productions from Cyprus and various international artists, highlighting the cultural richness and diversity of the performing arts.
Kicking off the festival is the much-anticipated production "Goodbye Lindita," directed by Mario Banushi, who recently received the Silver Lion award at the Venice Theatre Biennale. Scheduled for September 12 and 13, this award-winning play explores profound themes of loss, memory, and the enduring bonds that persist even after death. "Goodbye Lindita" has garnered acclaim on international stages, making its debut in Nicosia a significant event for local audiences.
Following this poignant opening, the festival will feature "L’Évènement" on September 15, marking its first appearance in Cyprus. This production, presented by the renowned Comédie-Française, stars Françoise Gillard and is based on the autobiographical work of Nobel laureate Annie Ernaux. The performance delves into themes of freedom, self-determination, and a woman’s right to make choices regarding her own body, offering a powerful narrative that resonates with contemporary issues.
On September 17 and 18, the festival will take a unique turn as it moves to a downtown Nicosia venue, the coffee shop To Erma, for the production "The Woman of Zakynthos." This performance, created by the Kinitiras Group and Antigoni Gyra, brings the words of Greek poet Dionysios Solomos to life, intertwining speech, movement, and music. It aims to connect the historical context of Solomos’ work with modern-day themes, providing an engaging experience for attendees.
Concluding the month’s highlights is "When I Saw the Sea," scheduled for September 20. This production, choreographed by the acclaimed Lebanese artist Ali Chahrour, presents the real stories of three women, focusing on themes of dignity, freedom, and survival. Chahrour’s work, which combines dance, music, and personal testimonies, aims to amplify voices that often go unheard, making it a compelling addition to the festival’s lineup.
The Nicosia International Festival runs from September 12 to November 1, featuring a total of 22 productions from Cyprus, Greece, Lebanon, France, Ireland, and Spain. Events will be held primarily at the Nicosia Municipal Theatre, with additional performances in various locations throughout the city. For more information, interested attendees can contact the theatre at 22-797979 or visit the festival's official website at www.nif.cy.
With a diverse range of performances and thought-provoking themes, this year’s festival promises to be a remarkable celebration of the performing arts, inviting audiences to engage with both local and international talent.