European Theatre And Film Institute (ETFI) is a Brussels-based research and education centre which was formed by a group of
like-minded theatre and film producers, researchers, educators, actors and directors in September 2017.
It is dedicated to
contemporary creation at the crossroads of theatre, film, and social research. Our artistic
team operates as an engaged dramaturgical laboratory, committed to developing works that
speak directly to the evolving concerns of European cities and their audiences. Cooperation
and sense of togetherness are rooted in our methods. Combined with interdisciplinary skills,
these elements are at the heart of our efficiency and engagement. Processes are
collaborative, research-based, and always favour rigour and intuition. ETFI sees theatre as a
revelatory act, uncovering the latent structures of contemporary life.
European theatres are among the most structurally robust and artistically ambitious in the world: supported, dynamic,
and able to work at the rhythm of well-functioning institutions. In
dialogue with these strengths, ETFI can offer something distinct:
As a team of specialised artists, the creation of tailored original productions is our speciality.
Taking the best from all elements of our collective, we produce truly unique plays,
distinguishable from classical dramaturgy. ETFI approaches theatre not as entertainment but
as a site of revelation: a place where contemporary life’s problematics can be uncovered,
examined, and altered. Our creations seek to activate spectators intellectually and
emotionally, opening spaces for reflection and dialogue.
Using our skills and your voice, we design unique audience engagement formats that are
adapted to the place they are delivered in. Whether it's for a major stage or a more civic role,
our productions always resonate with the communities and integrate cultural and social
aspects to connect your theaters with your audience.
Beyond its artistic direction, ETFI relies on a diversified team whose expertise spans theatre,
film, movement, scenography, writing, social research and performance training. Each
member brings a distinct artistic language, and together they form a collective able to
approach creation from multiple angles.
Our collaborators include theatre-makers, filmmakers, choreographers, dramaturgs,
designers, and cultural researchers who have worked across Europe, Central Asia, and the
Middle East. Their experiences range from independent experimental stages to national
theatres, festivals, film productions, community projects, and international residencies. This
diversity forms the foundation of ETFI’s creative method. It allows us to dig deeper into the
subjects we choose to create about, under many different aspects. For instance, we can
combine film realism with theatrical abstraction, integrate physical storytelling, and also
anchor our productions in sociopolitical research.
Our team’s strength lies in its interdisciplinary complementarity. Each project benefits from a
constellation of skills and cultural backgrounds, ensuring that the work remains inventive and
resonant. Every discipline feeds the others: a collective intelligence that allows ETFI to craft
productions with depth, versatility, and emotional power.
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