Supporting and empowering women in theatre leadership.

This programme is designed for women in leadership roles within the theatre sector who are looking to strengthen their international network and engage in discussions on the latest trends.

In European theatre, leadership matters: it shapes institutions, artistic direction, and the stories brought to the stage.
In early 2026, the European Theatre Convention marked an important milestone: 50% of ETC member theatres are now led by women.

"Leadership shapes culture, directs stories, and transforms society — without visibility, women’s leadership remains unseen, unheard, and undervalued. “The 50%: Women in Leadership” is more than a milestone — it is a call to make women visible where decisions are made, to dismantle structures that silence them, claim recognition, and build a cultural landscape where equality is fundamental, urgent, and indispensable for our shared future. We need to get used to the idea that when women are in leadership, they are in their natural environment, shaping healthier, bolder, and more dynamic cultural structures worldwide." 
Argyro Chioti, Artistic Director of National Theatre of Greece

This milestone was celebrated at the ETC International Theatre Conference 'Open to the World,' in Spring 2026.

"The situation for women leaders varies greatly across Europe. While we celebrate this achievement, we look ahead with an ambitious agenda to ensure more gender equality across all EU Member States."
Heidi Wiley, ETC Executive Director

This programme aims to:

• Enhance your leadership skills: Gain practical insights from expert facilitators and fellow participants who understand the complexities of leading within the theatre sector. 
• Develop resilience: Learn strategies to maintain mental health and resilience in the demanding environment of theatre leadership, ensuring you can continue to lead effectively over the long term. 
• Tackle gender inequality: Address the unique power dynamics and gender inequality challenges women face in leadership roles, and gain tools to create a more inclusive and supportive work environment. 
• Grow your professional network: Connect with other women theatre leaders across Europe, share experiences, and collaborate on fostering positive change in the theatre sector.
• Benefit from peer coaching: The peer-to-peer coaching sessions provide a platform for participants to receive tailored advice, share leadership challenges, and develop practical solutions in a supportive and collaborative setting. 

Please note that applications are currently closed. 

^{Photo: Ola Kjelbye}