On 26 and 27 June 2025, the choreographic performance “TOACA” will be presented as part of the International Theatre Festival in Sibiu. The Polish Dance Theatre Ensemble, together with choreographers Andrei Gavriliu, Ştefana Lupu and Mădălina Dan, brings together distinct creative voices, original styles and three contemporary perspectives on Romanian heritage and identity in a single performance. This experimental and bold work pays tribute to folk traditions that transcend national borders and identity boundaries. The performances are part of the Poland–Romania Cultural Season 2024–2025.
TOACA – a joint story of three choreographers on the diverse colours of Romanian culture
Three personalities. Three unique stage languages. One joint story. The performance “TOACA” is a unique collaboration between three Romanian choreographers: Andrei Gavriliu, Ştefan Lupu and Mădălina Dan. Using their own techniques and styles, and in cooperation with the Polish Dance Theatre Ensemble, they reinterpret Romania’s theatrical and cultural legacy in an innovative way. In their work, tradition intertwines with modernity, and music, dance, and live instrumental performance create a space for artistic dialogue – deeply personal yet universal. The artists invite viewers on a journey through a country of contrasts, deconstructing rigid definitions of borders and nationhood, culminating in the space of a contemporary art museum that explores Romanian-Polish connections. It is a symbolic portrait, free from stereotypes.
The title of the play symbolically refers to the toacă – the wooden bell which is central to the choreography. Traditionally used in Orthodox monasteries, it marks the rhythm of life: from birth, through celebration, to death. On the theatre stage, it becomes a metaphor for transformation, as well as a point of contact between two traditions – Romanian and Polish. The performance “TOACA” arises from the need to tell a story about ritual, spirituality, and transience – not through pathos, but through dance, costume, rhythm, and symbolism. The result is a performance rich in imagery, masks, rituals, and music inspired by folk motifs, moving and captivating with the full power of the body and presence, as well as with words.
“TOACA” will be presented as part of the International Theatre Festival in Sibiu on:
- 26 June 2025, 7:00 pm at the Filarmonica de Stat Sibiu;
- 27 June 2025, 7:00 pm at the Filarmonica de Stat Sibiu.
Sibiu International Theatre Festival 2025 under the slogan “Thank you”
The Sibiu International Theatre Festival (FITS) is one of the most significant theatre events, attracting outstanding artists, directors, and stage creators from around the world to Romania for over three decades. The 32nd edition of the festival will take place from 20 to 29 June 2025, transforming Sibiu into a vibrant centre of the arts, featuring both large-scale spectacles and intimate performances, alongside interdisciplinary artistic expressions.
FITS 2025 will present a diverse programme including drama, dance, opera, performance, music, and visual arts. Renowned for its bold curatorial choices, the festival continually pushes the boundaries of contemporary theatre. This event connects Romanian creators with international audiences and the global performing arts community, offering both masterful productions and innovative artistic projects addressing current social and cultural issues. The theme of the 32nd edition is “THANK YOU”. FITS 2025 will feature 842 events involving over 5,000 artists from 82 countries.
Photo from the “TOACA” performance. Photo courtesy of the Polish Dance Theatre.
“TOACA” performance as part of the Poland–Romania Cultural Season 2024–2025
The performances of “TOACA” form part of the Poland–Romania Cultural Season 2024–2025. The season is organised by the Polish Ministry of Culture and National Heritage and the Adam Mickiewicz Institute, with support from the Polish Institute in Bucharest, in cooperation with the Romanian Ministry of Culture and the Romanian Institute of Culture. Throughout the season, several dozen events will take place, including exhibitions, music, theatre, film, and literature.
Project partners and supporting institutions include: the Wielkopolska Province Government, Adam Mickiewicz Institute, FITS – Sibiu International Theatre Festival, Csiky Gergely Hungarian Theatre, the Romanian Institute of Culture in Warsaw, and the Polish Institute in Bucharest.
Tickets are available on the FITS website: www.sibfest.ro.