Conference
How is societal development shaping the performing arts — and what challenges and opportunities does this create for artistic freedom, programming, and the role of culture in a democratic society?
During the Gothenburg Dance and Theatre Festival, professionals and decision‐makers from the performing arts sector in Sweden, the Nordic region, and the international performing arts field will gather for a day of conversations, perspectives, and networking focused on the significance of the performing arts in our contemporary world.
The conference focuses on two interconnected themes:
The Value and Relevance of the Performing Arts for Democracy
What role do art, cultural institutions, and artistic freedom play in a democratic society — and what is at stake today?
Programming Challenges in 2026
How do artistic directors and programmers navigate between creativity, artistic visions, and ideological tensions in an increasingly polarized world?
Throughout the day, we will meet researchers, artistic directors, and cultural professionals from the Nordic and international performing arts
sector through keynote presentations and discussions:
Elena Polivtseva
Independent researcher and co‐founder of Culture Policy Room. Elena works internationally on issues related to cultural policy, cultural rights,
and artistic freedom.
Magda Bizarro
Co‐Programming Director at Festival d’Avignon, with extensive experience in international programming.
The discussions will also feature:
• Kasper Holten – Director of Denmark’s national theatre, The Royal Danish Theatre, and active as a director in opera and performing arts
• Tiina Rosenberg – Professor, researcher, and author specializing in performing arts, gender studies, and cultural issues
• Kristin Danielsen – Director of the Nordic Culture Fund, with extensive experience in cultural policy and Nordic cultural collaboration
• Dritëro Kasapi – Playwright, director, and Artistic Director/Theatre Director at Riksteatern, with experience in artistic leadership and the relationship between performing arts and societal issues
• Birgit Berndt – Artistic Director and CEO of CODA Oslo International Dance Festival, with a focus on contemporary dance and international collaboration
• Nils Haarmann – Co‐curator of the FIND Festival and dramaturg at Schaubühne Berlin, active within international contemporary performing arts
Moderator Lotta Lekvall, Board Member of the European Theatre Convention, Chair of Scensverige, and CEO of Folkteatern, will guide us through the day’s themes and discussions.
Schedule for the Day
09:45–10:30 Registration and coffee
10:30–15:00 Conference program featuring performances, keynote speakers, and panel discussions
15:00–16:30 Reception and networking
The day concludes with a reception and networking event hosted by Svensk Scenkonst, the employers’ and industry organization for the performing arts sector, including welcome remarks by Mikael Brännvall, CEO of Svensk Scenkonst.
Welcome to a day of dialogue, reflection, and new connections — where the place and significance of the performing arts in society take center stage.
A vegetarian lunch is included in the price of the conference, a total of 595 sek for conference and lunch.
The conference will be in english
Stora Teatern, Göteborg | Thursday 27th of august 2026
