At the Global Civilizations Dialogue Ministerial Meeting in Beijing last Friday, Lloyd Nyikadzino, Executive Council Member of the International Theatre Institute (ITI), urged audiences to bridge cultural divides through the power of theatre.
"No culture is at the periphery, and no culture is superior. We should live in harmony," said Nyikadzino in an interview with CGTN, highlighting theatre as a key medium for cross border empathy and dialogue.
Describing theatre as "one of the most important critical tools" to influence both nations and individuals, he emphasized that each culture brings its own unique perspective to the stage. "Every culture is unique and different – we cannot be the same. But the issue is to find common ground, a place where we can exchange and interact," he explained.
In an age where digital platforms connect millions, Nyikadzino sees theatre not just as live performances in historic venues but also as virtual stages that spark innovation and social change. From immersive street performances in emerging markets to virtual reality adaptations reaching remote audiences, theatre offers a blueprint for meaningful cultural exchange.
For business and tech enthusiasts, these collaborations across borders inspire new ways to blend storytelling with innovation from virtual sets powered by artificial intelligence to interactive scripts shaped by audience feedback. Thought leaders and activists find in theatre a compelling format to explore sustainability, human rights, and global policies in a way that resonates on a personal level.
Fans of live events, whether on a festival stage or an esports arena turned theatrical, witness the universal appeal of storytelling. And for travelers and digital nomads, engaging with local theatre communities offers an immersive path to understand places beyond typical tourist trails.
As the curtain falls on the Beijing meeting, Nyikadzino's call for harmony through theatre reminds us that when diverse voices share the stage, they create more than performances – they foster a more connected, empathetic world.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
