FITAG: A symbol of resistance
True to its tradition of theatre that is alive, changing, and adapted to current times, in this strange and complicated year, a part of which we had to spend in lockdown, August arrives and marks the 20th edition of the Girona International Amateur Theatre Festival. From August 25th to the 29th, the Girona region will once again become an epicenter of artistic explosion, as it has been since the first edition of El Pati, in 1998.
Not only does FITAG provide a rare chance to discover the hidden talents of amateur theatre companies, but because of its idiosyncrasies, it is also an excellent opportunity to fall in love with the cities and towns in Girona, and its people. The festival weaves together the cultural, patrimonial, and physical reality of our region, thanks to the efforts to decentralize the events; which enriches the proposal encouraged by the Diputació de Girona.
The large crowds that attend the festival, which seem to get bigger each year, are a testament to the quality of the trademark event, which is adored by the participants and audience alike, as well as the cultural programmers. Although this year, FITAG is going to be special, not just because it is the 20th edition, but because it has had to adapt to the new reality we are living in, which requires reducing seating capacity and keeping a safety distance. But the theatre knows how to adapt to the times and it evolves alongside them; which is exactly why it will return, putting in all the effort necessary, and will once again host a world-class show.
Every cultural event that takes place in our region is a window that we open to the world to get to know us. We have always been able to take advantage of this as well, to improve as a society by exchanging experiences with other cultures, both near and far. This year, FITAG will be welcoming theatre companies from our country and countries nearby, but nonetheless will continue to be a festival of reference when it comes to amateur, non-professional, independent, collegiate, beginner and community theatre.
Once again, the theater will become the agora where people come together to share laughs and tears thanks to the magic of the stage. For this reason alone, FITAG is a symbol of strength and resistance and deserves a big round of applause again this year.
Albert Piñeira
Assistant Vice President of the Diputació de Girona