Artistic Leadership : Tiago Rodrigues
Since 2023, the festival has been under the artistic direction of Tiago Rodrigues, a Portuguese playwright and director known for his humanist approach to theatre. Rodrigues succeeded Olivier Py and has brought a fresh perspective to the festival, emphasizing inclusivity and dialogue across cultures and generations. Under Rodrigues' leadership, the festival has featured works that address contemporary themes such as climate change, intergenerational communication, and the challenges facing democracies. In his 2025 program statement, Rodrigues invited audiences to "celebrate, without ever forgetting the tragedies of the past and present," underscoring the festival's commitment to both reflection and celebration.
Beyond the performances, the Festival d’Avignon transforms the city into a vibrant cultural hub. The historic Palais des Papes serves as a majestic backdrop for many productions, while the city's streets, squares, and courtyards become stages for impromptu performances and artistic encounters. This immersive environment fosters a sense of community and dialogue among artists and audiences alike.
A commitment to diversity
Under Tiago Rodrigues's direction, the festival highlights works in the Arabic language and international creations, demonstrating its desire to represent diverse voices. The 2025 edition notably includes tributes to the Palestinian poet Mahmoud Darwish and the Egyptian singer Oum Kalthoum, as well as Milo Rau's show dedicated to Gisèle Pelicot, mixing theatre and social commitment.
En résumé, le Festival d’Avignon continue de célébrer son héritage tout en embrassant les enjeux contemporains et la diversité artistique. Sous la direction de Tiago Rodrigues, il demeure un espace essentiel d’échanges culturels, de réflexion et de célébration, invitant le public à découvrir le monde à travers le prisme transformateur du théâtre.
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