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(25 Nov) A Stage Without Borders: Rotary Meeting Highlights the International Vision of Ivan Vazov National Theatre (+GAL)
On Tuesday, 25 November 2025, the Rotary clubs in Sofia gathered for their 20th monthly joint meeting. The event took place at Hotel Downtown at 19:00, with Rotary Club Sofia Capital serving as the symbolic host. Prior to the main gathering, a Presidents’ meeting was held, where Rotary Club Sofia International was represented by Ms. Hristova. The meeting was described as pleasant, productive, and constructive, setting a positive tone for the evening ahead.
The joint meeting was a special occasion due to the presence of distinguished guest speakers from the Ivan Vazov National Theatre. Mr. Mladen Aleksiev, Head of the International Activities and Projects Department, and Mrs. Ekaterina Mihaylova from the theatre’s public relations team, were invited to present a topic of great cultural significance. Their presentation, titled “A Stage Without Borders,” focused on the National Theatre’s international programme and its role as a foundation for the creation of a representative international theatre festival in Sofia.
Mr. Aleksiev shared insights into his work in developing and overseeing the theatre’s international initiatives. His role involves building global partnerships, supporting visiting productions, and expanding Sofia’s cultural presence beyond national borders. A key part of this vision is making theatre more accessible to international audiences through multilingual performances, including an increasing number of productions available in English. These efforts have opened the Ivan Vazov National Theatre to a broader global public and strengthened its position on the international cultural stage.
The presentation also offered a brief historical overview of the theatre, whose origins date back to 1904. That year, a private drama troupe known as Salza i Smyah, meaning Tear and Laughter, was transformed into Bulgaria’s first state-run national theatre. Construction of a dedicated theatre building began the same year on the site of a former wooden playhouse called Osnova. The design was entrusted to renowned Viennese architects Ferdinand Fellner and Hermann Helmer, who were responsible for many iconic theatre buildings across Europe.
The building was completed in 1906 and officially opened on 3 January 1907. The opening repertoire included notable Bulgarian works, and the evening featured a prologue written especially for the occasion by Ivan Vazov himself. Shortly thereafter, the theatre was named in his honour, recognizing his lasting contribution to Bulgarian literature and drama.
The theatre’s history has not been without hardship. In 1923, a devastating fire broke out during an anniversary celebration, destroying the stage, auditorium, and cloakroom. For several years, the theatre company was forced to relocate, touring the country and performing in alternative venues. Further destruction followed during World War II, when bombing raids on Sofia in January 1944 damaged parts of the auditorium and the south wing of the building. Once again, the troupe had to evacuate and perform elsewhere. Despite these challenges, the theatre was restored after the war, and by 1945 performances had resumed in Sofia.
Today, the Ivan Vazov National Theatre stands as both a cultural and architectural landmark. Its neoclassical façade, with six columns supporting a pediment adorned with mythological figures, makes it one of the most recognizable buildings in the city. For more than a century, it has served as the cradle of Bulgarian dramatic art and has been home to generations of prominent playwrights, actors, and directors.
The evening concluded with enthusiasm and inspiration, particularly upon learning that the theatre now offers performances and guided tours in English. As a result, some of the upcoming Rotary meetings will include a visit to the Ivan Vazov National Theatre, continuing the dialogue between culture, community, and international exchange.
