Theatre in Romania

Description:

Although Romanian theatre appeared late (until the 19^th century theatre was in the form of entertainment shows played in the courts mansions or folk theatre form) it has evolved rapidly and continuously.

The first performances, by amateur artists, were held in 1814 in Iasi and in Bucharest in 1818. For mid-century, the Romanian society appetite for theatre led to an almost continuous presence of foreign troops in both capitals and the first performances in Romanian. Schools of Theatre of the Philharmonic Society in Bucharest (1833) and the Philharmonic and Drama Conservatory of Iasi (1936) and later more dramatic state art schools (1864) laid the foundation for theatre education and 1852 was the year and the first troops independent theatre. A feature of the foundation of Romanian theatre national theatre in Bucharest and Iasi, after 1870, until today by the state is subsidizing them.

During the years of communism were higher noted theatre directors: Sica Alexandrescu (1896-1973), Liviu Ciulei, Giurchescu Lucian Radu Penciulescu, Lucian Pintilie, Andrei Serban, David Esrig, Ion Cojar and many others. Many have joined the Diaspora and became resounding names in international theatre. After 1989, Romanian theatre was required by successful performances on major stages of the world, thanks to its exceptional actors and  original directors like Silviu Purcarete, Catalina Buzoianu, Tompa Gabor and Mihai Maniutiu.

The number of theatres increased from 14-16, at the beginning of World War II to 45-50 in years 70 and 80 and then 52 in 1996. The number of spectators fluctuated: from 1.5 million in 1938 increased to 6-7 million in 80 years and dropped to 1 million over the past few years.