Burn-in, burn-out

Are we burning our candles at both ends? Have we reached the point of no return or can we still navigate our desired paths? When faced with crossroads, which paths should we take?

Over the past two years, IETM has delved into the burning topics of fairness, equal pay,  proper working conditions, the climate crisis, climate justice, Indigenous knowledge and greening practices. Through our exploration, we have argued for alternative funding models and the importance of climate justice, and strived to highlight the opportunities and responsibilities of the performing arts within both. In 2024, we aimed to embrace our discoveries and design a fair, green and inclusive ‘new international’ vision for the sector, drawing on all that we have learnt. On this journey, the IETM Sofia Plenary Meeting has been our key destination. 

IETM returned to Sofia on 12-15 June 2024 to experience Toplocentrala, the new Centre for Contemporary Performing Arts, in all its glory. Ten years ago, a campaign was set in motion and this ‘space for change’ was established - the beginning of a unique collaboration between the local, independent artistic scene and local institutions. 

In 2024, we faced a new campaign. Our colleagues in Bulgaria have been fighting for an increase in the country's cultural budget to one percent (1%). Their campaign - and our own - was set to shape our sessions and dialogues and ignited a fire for participants from across the globe in their own quests for justice, faced with a heated globe and unjust systems.

You can find out more information about the pre and post-meeting trips in the programme and practical information page.
 

The IETM Sofia Plenary Meeting 2024 happened as part of our Creative Europe project The New International in the Performing Arts (NIPA): Bridging local and global.