Open to the World

23 - 26 April 2026 | Göteborgs Stadsteater - Backa Teater
Gothenburg, Sweden

From 23–26 April 2026, Göteborgs Stadsteater – Backa Teater will host the Spring 2026 ETC International Theatre Conference under the title Open to the World.

Inspired by Gothenburg’s identity as a harbour city shaped by exchange and movement, Open to the World highlights ETC’s role in fomenting cultural cooperation around the world, creating external relations with key global partners.

The keynote address will be delivered by Josette Bushell-Mingo, Principal of the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama (UK) and former Artistic Director of the National Black Theatre of Sweden - a leading voice on diversity, access and institutional transformation.

A central panel, National Theatres in a Changing Political Landscape, will bring together theatre leaders from across Europe to reflect on shifting political, social, and funding realities, and on how international cooperation can support artistic freedom.

The conference will also offer:

• A dedicated daily programme for International Women Theatre Leaders, recognising the strong presence of women in leadership across ETC theatres - and creating a focused space for exchange on leadership and equity
• A Nordic perspective on cross-border collaboration
• An exploration of European cultural policy developments and projects, including PROSPERO NEW

Open to the World positions theatre as a space for international dialogue, cultural exchange, and shared long-term vision—aligned with Gothenburg’s identity as a sustainable, globally connected place open to new voices and ideas.

Discover the draft conference programme

Registration will be launched in early 2026.