The International Association for Performing Arts and Research (IAPAR), a network of artists and arts professionals, launched the IAPAR International Theatre Festival in 2016 to give Puneites access to original and stimulating productions from across the world. Keeping the “actor at the centre” is the focus of the festival, which encourages “any kind of dramatic presentation”. The performances include those of full-length and short plays, storytelling and poetry. Masterclasses by senior theatre practitioners, workshops, play readings and a vibrant outreach programme for schools are among the attractions at the annual event.

Over its six editions until date, the IAPAR International Theatre Festival has featured productions and participants from 35 countries. These include nations that rarely bring works to India such as Belarus, Georgia, Kosovo, Mongolia and Slovenia, to name a few. Adishakti’s Bali, Ninasam Tirugata’s Madhyama Vyayoga, the NSD Repertory Company’s Tajmahal Ka Tender and No License Yet’s The Old Man and The Sea are some of the Indian plays that have been staged at the festival.

The international presentations at the festival have include the Mandragora Circus from Argentina, Gomel Puppet Theatre’s When I’ll Become A Cloud from Belarus, and Poti Valerian Gunia Professional State Theatre’s Pirosmani from Georgia. Theatre actors Ram Gopal Bajaj, Abhiram Bhadkamkar and Geetanjali Kulkarni are among those who have been part of the festival so far.

Check out more theatre festivals here.