March 27 is World Theatre Day, first celebrated in 1962 at the initiative of the International Theatre Institute. The event brings to the fore not only stage performances but also the essential role theater plays in people's daily lives.
When asked by IPN, Ala Mensikov-Vutcarau, a well-known theater actress, sent a message of appreciation and gratitude on the occasion. "Theater is about people - those on stage and those in the auditorium. Without the audiences who come and enjoy every performance, theater would be meaningless. That is why I want to congratulate all those who love theater and support culture," the actress said.
She underlined that theater is a long road, marked by sacrifices and hardships, as well as great rewards: "Although in many cases the working conditions of theater people are not ideal, the love of the audience and the recognition of our value are the rewards that keep us going".
Ala Mensikov-Vutcarau believes theater remains a universal art form that transcends language and cultural barriers. She ended her tour in South Korea, where she performed in Romanian but with Korean subtitles, and had the opportunity to experience how theater art can reach different audiences, but with the same emotions and reactions. "It's amazing to see how a show that deals with universal themes - love, war, peace - can be understood and appreciated anywhere in the world," the actress added.
The Culture Ministry sent a congratulatory message on the occasion of World Theater Day, addressing all those who contribute to the cultural life of the country. "Every stage carries a dream, a premiere and a desire for recognition. We wish you memorable performances, full halls and unceasing applause," reads the official message, accompanied by special applause for Theater at the Microphone, which is celebrating its 75th anniversary, and Theater Without a Name, which has been successfully building its name for 35 years.
The origins of Moldovan theatrical art are closely linked to folk traditions and customs, and today Moldovan theaters proudly preserve these roots. The National Theatre "Mihai Eminescu" in Chisinau, for example, opened in 1921 and remains one of the top cultural institutions, with performances that win over local and international audiences.
In the context of World Theatre Day, a significant moment is this year's international message, written by director and educator Theodoros Terzopoulos. He expresses his concern about the human condition in the 21st century, when the manipulation of citizens for political and economic interests creates a dangerous distance between people. Terzopoulos emphasizes that theatre should be a place to reflect on these issues and promote a culture of peace and mutual understanding.
Theater is on the rise in Moldova. According to the data of the National Bureau of Statistics, in 2024, the country's 17 theaters recorded a significant number of performances - 2 413, with more than 377 000 spectators, which is an increase compared to the previous year. This is a positive trend in terms of public interest in culture and arts, Ala Mensikov-Vutcarau emphasized.
The artist concluded that Theatre Day pays homage to all those who contribute to cultural life, and theater continues to be an art form that brings people together and an essential part of social life in Moldova.
