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Description
The project addresses the following issues: the ethnic segregation of the audience for cultural events in Cluj, the need for professional training of people operating in the cultural field, caused by the lack of learning programs adapted to current needs, and audience development in line with the new economic and social challenges. The target groups are the audience who will benefit from the artistic events, the artists involved in the cultural events, the participants to the professional workshops and the workshop coordinators. Direct beneficiaries: over 3000 spectators, 196 artists involved in the artistic events, 30 artists participating in the workshops, 5 people involved in the management and implementation teams. Final beneficiaries: the community of spectators of Cluj-Napoca, the community of artists from the independent sector, Reactor and partners, the local authorities, specialists and researchers interested in inter-ethnic relations, the communities met during the research stages of the new performances, performing arts professionals. The project’s main objective is to increase the access to culture for the inhabitants of Cluj, to develop the theatre audience, to promote cultural diversity, to develop the skills of cultural specialists, to develop intercultural dialogue. Specific objectives include the implementation of 28 cultural activities for the Romanian and Hungarian communities of Cluj, in order to promote the ethnic desegregation of the audience and the development of independent theatre, during a period of 16 months.
Summary of project results
The project aimed to tackle several pressing challenges in the cultural landscape of Cluj, including the ethnic segregation of audiences at cultural events, the insufficient professional training opportunities for cultural sector professionals due to the lack of learning programs tailored to contemporary needs, and the necessity of audience development in response to evolving economic and social dynamics.
Its primary objective was to enhance cultural accessibility for Cluj residents, expand and diversify theatre audiences, promote cultural diversity, strengthen the professional skills of cultural specialists, and foster intercultural dialogue. Through these efforts, the project sought to create a more inclusive and dynamic cultural environment that responds to both artistic and community needs.
The project employed innovative artistic strategies to develop and promote new cultural productions, establish alternative communication channels, and create artistic works that creatively addressed the region’s specific socio-ethnic challenges. By integrating these approaches, the project aimed to foster a more inclusive and dynamic cultural scene.
As a result, two new co-productions were developed, and 43 bilingual performances were staged, offering both Romanian and Hungarian audiences access to a diverse range of theatrical experiences. These initiatives not only facilitated cultural exchange but also contributed to long-term cultural enrichment and the promotion of ethnic tolerance within the community.
The project generated significant results, benefiting both cultural professionals and the wider community. A total of 20.48 jobs were created, contributing to the sustainability of the cultural sector. Additionally, 30 professionals enhanced their skills and expertise through targeted development initiatives, strengthening the local creative workforce. In terms of artistic output, the project supported 47 theatrical performances, enriching the contemporary art scene and expanding audience engagement. It also produced two theatrical works addressing social, ethnic, and cultural minorities, excluding the Roma minority, promoting diverse cultural narratives. Furthermore, the project introduced an innovative approach to cultural heritage aimed at audience development, fostering a deeper connection between the public and artistic expression.
Summary of bilateral results
The project fostered strong bilateral cooperation through its partnership with Para Film AS from Norway, enhancing professional exchange and capacity-building in the cultural sector. As part of this collaboration, Para Film AS designed and delivered a specialized training program for 30 Romanian artists and cultural managers, equipping them with new skills and expertise in contemporary artistic and managerial practices.