Gestus Theatre: By Artists, For Artists

In the heart of Blagoevgrad, a long-dreamed-of idea was recently put to life by actresses Ilona Gospodinova and Konstantina Samardzhieva - Gestus Theatre. What started as an association of independent artists called Gestus Theatre & Art Center in 2016 has now found its embodiment in the theater itself.

 

From Puppetry to a Stage of Their Own

After earning their bachelor's degrees in acting in Blagoevgrad, life steered Ilona and Konstantina towards puppetry. Eventually, they found themselves performing their own puppet shows all around the country. As luck would have it, they would return to Blagoevgrad with a mission: to create a home for independent artists.

“It was the thought that we would have a place where new and independent artists can have the liberty to express themselves. It was mostly born from the desire to express ourselves in the way we understand it and feel art,” explained Ilona Gospodinova

 

The decision was instant upon visiting the current location of the theater - Georgi Izmirliev-Makedonche 7, in 2023.

“We visited the place and we really liked the location - it is right in the city centre. But even more than that, the space itself felt incredibly fitting for the kind of theater we wanted to create. After ten years of searching, we thought: We had nothing to wait for; now was the time,” said Konstantina.

 

The Small City That Became Their Stage

“In the small cities, there are barely any spaces like this one. When there is a community of artists practicing freely, it adds extra value to the city,” said Ilona. 

For the founders of the theater, Blagoevgrad is a stage waiting for its audience. By starting a theater here, they aim to restore the connection between artists and the audience - a bond often lost in the fast pace of life.

Ilona and Konstantina already have a steady schedule for children and they hope that soon there will be more events for adults as well.

 

The Meaning Behind Their Name 

The name of the theater is influenced by the name of a popular acting technique. Just like in the Brechtian sense of the word, Gestus Theatre is not just a stage. It is a gesture towards the audience - an act that speaks outside words.

“We decided on that name at the beginning and have not changed it ever since. It also sounds pretty nice,” shared Konstantina.

 

Plans for the Future

Their plans for the future go beyond performances, as Ilona and Konstantina are thinking of turning the theater into a multifunctional creative space.

“We are planning to organize small, intimate performances - plays with four or five actors — but also meetings featuring well-known figures from art, business, television, and literature,” said Konstantina. 

 

A Message to Young Artists

When talking about the future and their ideas, the actresses did not forget to mention young people who dream of devoting themselves to art.

“The first and the most important thing is never to give up! The road is bumpy, but it has to be passed. Do not lose motivation,” said both the actresses.

 

Join the World of Dreams, Inspiration, and Art

Gestus Theatre Art center is recruiting new team members. “If anyone is passionate about acting - they are always welcome. Desire and energy are most important,” said Ilona.

“Gestus Theatre is a space for dreams, inspirations, and desires. A place where art is not only presented but also experienced,” shared the actresses.

 

 

Edited by Bilyana Spasova and Kaloyan Ivanov