National Theatre Day

World Theatre Day is a global celebration of the performing arts, recognizing the power and importance of theatre as a form of cultural expression and entertainment. It celebrates the essence, beauty, and significance of theatre arts while promoting their role in fostering peace and economic development.

Quick Facts

When is it: March 27 annually
Tagged as: Cultural celebration, performing arts
What’s the hashtag: #WorldTheatreDay
When was it founded: 1961
Who founded it: International Theatre Institute (ITI)

History

The initiative began when ITI President Arvi Kivimaa proposed the idea at the ninth World Congress in Vienna. The first celebration took place on March 27, 1962, with Jean Cocteau delivering the inaugural message. Today, it’s celebrated in over 90 ITI centers worldwide, with theatre communities organizing special events and performances.

Timeline

• 534 BCE: Thespis arrives in Athens with his troupe
• 55 BCE: First permanent stone theatre built in Rome
• 1585: Teatro Olimpico inaugurated in Vicenza, Italy
• 1961: ITI establishes World Theatre Day
• 1962: First official celebration
• 2022: 60th anniversary celebration

Upcoming Dates

Year	Month	Date	Day
2025	March	27	Thursday
2026	March	27	Friday
2027	March	27	Saturday
2028	March	27	Monday
2029	March	27	Tuesday

How It’s Observed

The day features special performances, events, and the reading of the World Theatre Day Message translated into over 50 languages. Theatres worldwide organize special shows, and educational institutions conduct workshops and seminars.

Fun Facts About Theatre

• The word “theatre” comes from ancient Greek meaning “a place for seeing”
• Ancient Greek theatres could hold up to 14,000 spectators
• The theme “Theatre and a Culture of Peace” remains constant every year
• Messages are broadcast in all five continents
• Over 100 radio and television stations participate in spreading the message

Quiz

Who delivered the first World Theatre Day Message?
In which city was World Theatre Day proposed?
How many ITI centers exist worldwide?
-(Answers: 1. Jean Cocteau, 2. Vienna, 3. Over 90)

FAQs

• Can theatre change the world? Yes, it has been a catalyst for social change throughout history
• Is theatre considered a sport? While not athletic, it shares team-based attributes
• When did theatre begin in Greece? Around 1000 BCE