Cyprus Theatre Organisation (THOC) has a new outward-facing strategy eyeing partnerships in Greece and Europe, its chairman Pantelis Voutouris said in an interview to CNA on Sunday.

With a qualified Board of Directors, as he describes it, at his side, Voutouris acknowledges the numerous challenges facing THOC and prioritises solving chronic problems and developing strategic planning.

THOC’s new strategy eyes decentralisation and international extroversion with partnerships in Greece and Europe.

Speaking to CNA, Voutouris highlighted understaffing issues and the need to immediately fill critical positions, including that of the Director General.

He noted that with internal structural changes and the establishment of a special arts committee, THOC has managed to formulate a high-quality programme for the theatre season 2024-2025, which has received an excellent response from the audience.

At the same time, with the aim of transforming the artistic theatre map of Cyprus, Voutouris shared THOC’s ambitious plans to create a Drama School in Larnaca, a second THOC headquarters in Limassol and a Centre for Set Design in Ayia Napa.

Furthermore, he shared the organisation’s new outward looking strategy, which includes the renewal of partnerships with Greek theatres, participation in international festivals and the creation of new partnerships with European theatres.

Asked about THOC’s challenges, Voutouris told CNA that the challenges are many, noting that THOC is Cyprus’ state theatre with a multi-faceted mission.

Voutouris says that both himself and the Board of Directors’ priority is the creation of theatre education, the general promotion of theatre and the creation of new jobs for Cypriot actors.

Asked about THOC’s international relations, Voutouris pointed out that THOC aims to promote productions in other countries, such as Greece, England and other European countries.

He also announced the renewal of memoranda of understanding with the two state theatres in Greece, the National Theatre of Northern Greece and the National Theatre of Athens. This cooperation, he explains, will include a two-way exchange and hosting of performances.

Voutouris added that THOC is seeking to develop a network of international partnerships, in addition to the partnerships with Greece, which as he explains are easily formed as a result of the fact that a large number of Cypriot artists and creators have careers there. However, he stressed that it is THOC’s responsibility to support actors in Cyprus as well.