“I divide my life into ‘before’ and ‘after’ Fortinbras – the experience has been priceless. I’ve gained so many useful skills, both professional & personal.” – Fortinbras Alumna
Studio Fortinbras, Belarus Free Theatre’s training and teaching academy in Minsk, was founded by Nicolai Khalezin, together with Natalia Kaliada and Vladimir Shcherban, in 2007.
To this day Fortinbras is the only independent theatre school in Belarus combining drama education with training in activism, journalism and campaigning to create the next generation of socially-engaged artists.
Students describe the school as ‘transformative’ and are encouraged to find their own voices and deepen their engagement with social and political issues.
As part of an intensive two-year programme, students receive 21 hours of training per week – a combination of seminars and masterclasses – with strong practical elements that include both devised performance, and the design and implementation of campaigns.
Past modules at Fortinbras have included:
Citizen Journalism
Human Rights, Civic Activism and Campaigning
Factual/Documentary Theatre
Physical Theatre
Object Theatre
Choreography
Vocals & Voice Training
More than half of Fortinbras’ 180 graduates are actively involved in civil society organisations, some having established their own. Several students carry on to become full-time ensemble members of Belarus Free Theatre.
For more information on Studio Fortinbras, please contact: education@belarusfreetheatre.com