No transportation info
-
CHARACTERS Contemporary Drama Movement operates as a dynamic independent performing arts and playwriting movement based in Baku. The movement focuses on discovering original theatrical voices, staging thought-provoking contemporary scripts, and bridging Azerbaijani stage culture with global drama networks. Through active production work and educational workshops, the collective cultivates an open environment for innovative theatrical storytelling.
History:
Foundation: The initiative was launched in 2023 by playwright and theatre curator Ismail Iman as a contemporary play competition and festival.
Artistic evolution: Over successive seasons, the project evolved into an independent producing theatre company and an ongoing international drama movement.
Team:
Artistic leadership: The project is directed and curated by playwright, screenwriter, and theatre maker Ismail Iman.
Creative personnel: Core collaborators include stage director Mikayil Merdinli, production designer Rufana Mamedova, choreographer Nigar Kulakhmedova, and professional ensemble actors.
Jury and experts: Competition panels feature prominent theatre scholars and directors such as Israfil Israfilov, Elchin Jafarov, Aliya Dadashova, Mikayil Mikayilov, and Tural Mustafayev.
-
Theatrical productions: Full-scale stage works such as "Omid, The Last White Crane" and Rory Mullarkey's "On the Threshing Floor" are staged for audiences.
Playwriting competitions: Open submission calls evaluate original Azerbaijani-language plays as well as literary translations of modern international drama.
Public readings and labs: New scripts undergo public rehearsed readings, critical discussions, and structured development labs.
Educational masterclasses: Educational workshops and craft masterclasses are organized for aspiring playwrights and theatre practitioners.
-
International affiliations: The movement acts as coordinator for the Azerbaijani committee of the EURODRAM European drama translation network and implements joint initiatives with the British Council.
Performance venues: Productions and events take place across contemporary venues, including Fluxus Space, YUG State Theatre, and the Baku Marionette Theatre.
-
Playwright empowerment: The platform promotes new domestic writers by recommending winning plays for staging across state and independent repertory theatres.
Cultural exchange: Modern European drama is translated into Azerbaijani to broaden the national theatrical repertoire and foster international dialogue.
-
Upcoming premiere: Rehearsals and ticketing launch for the production of "On the Threshing Floor", supported by the British Council Connections Through Culture programme.
Festival milestones: The latest playwriting competition cycle concluded, followed by directed public readings of selected winning texts.
CHARACTERS Contemporary Drama Movement is an independent Azerbaijani cultural initiative dedicated to advancing modern playwriting, experimental theatre productions, and literary translation. The platform organizes contemporary drama festivals, playwright competitions, public play readings, and stage productions. It fosters creative collaborations between local theatre makers and international arts organizations.
