How Can We Foster International Collaboration in Theatre for Young Audiences?
One of the major challenges in international touring for Theatre for Young Audiences (TYA) is the language barrier. While visual and movement-based performances can transcend linguistic differences, text-heavy productions often face difficulties reaching audiences outside their home country. This raises important questions: How can we facilitate cross-border collaborations for text-based theatre? How can we help companies develop projects that are adaptable to different linguistic and cultural contexts?
At INAF 2025 in Oslo, ASSITEJ Norway is launching a Concept Pitching Event, giving theatre companies the opportunity to present concepts rather than productions for touring. The goal is to create an arena where companies can find partners for co-productions and explore new ways to develop and export work that is accessible across languages and cultures.
This event is part of a larger conversation about the future of international collaboration in TYA. More and more companies are moving away from traditional manuscript-based theatre and instead developing concept-driven performances. This shift brings up new questions: How do we ensure royalties and rights for concept-based productions? What funding models and structures are needed to support international artistic exchanges?
To address these topics, INAF 2025 will also host a seminar on concept-driven theatre and international collaboration. The session will feature:
Companies sharing their experiences with developing and exporting concept-based productions.
Producers and funding bodies discussing the financial frameworks needed to sustain international artistic exchange.
Discussions on best practices for ensuring proper rights and compensation for concept-based work.
By creating space for early-stage collaboration, INAF 2025 aims to foster long-term partnerships between companies, programmers, and cultural institutions. We believe this initiative can strengthen the international network of TYA and support the development of new and innovative productions that reach young audiences worldwide.
Event dates: 07 May 2025
Location: Riksteatret, Oslo, Norway
Concept Pitch Application Deadline: April 15, 2025
