Improvisational Theatre Techniques for Well-Being in Lands Affected by Natural Disasters, Depopulation and/or Solitude
ImproLANDS is a 22-month small-scale European Cooperation Project funded by the CreativeEurope Programme to shed light on four targeted inland areas across Europe.
By bringing together four cultural organisations of different nationalities, the project aims to engage local communities and create cultural encounters through the methodology of improvisational theatre techniques.
PROJECT PILLARS
Co-creation
Learning from each other and co-developing artistic content (labs, training, talks)
Community involvement
Participation of isolated communities during the residency and dissemination of the project
Territorial Attractiveness
Steps to make fragile territories more noticeable and attractive at local, regional and European level
Throwback to our unforgettable Spanish Residency! 🌍✨
In the heart of #Coca, nestled in the Segovian countryside, we brought improvisation to life in ways that transcended mere performance.
Our final show took place in Coca`s stunning theatre, after a day exploring the iconic Coca Castle 🏰 and chatting with locals about their lives and stories. The improvisers used the same framework developed in Italy, adapting it to the unique essence of Coca’s intergenerational audience.
The result? A performance where adults and children joined on stage, creating spontaneous moments of joy and surprise that resonated with everyone. 🎭
But the magic didn’t end there. After the show, a real conversation unfolded. Villagers opened up about the challenges of #depopulation, #unemployment, and how modern divides—digital, generational, and social—impact family bonds. Grandparents reflected on evolving relationships, while the community collectively discussed the need for social justice and governmental accountability.
What did we learn? #Improvisation isn’t just theatre; it’s a powerful tool for opening doors to new perspectives, fostering connection, and creating spaces where people can laugh, reflect, and claim their voices. 💬💡
Throwback to our unforgettable Spanish Residency! 🌍✨
In the heart of #Coca, nestled in the Segovian countryside, we brought improvisation to life in ways that transcended mere performance.
Our final show took place in Coca`s stunning theatre, after a day exploring the iconic Coca Castle 🏰 and chatting with locals about their lives and stories. The improvisers used the same framework developed in Italy, adapting it to the unique essence of Coca’s intergenerational audience.
The result? A performance where adults and children joined on stage, creating spontaneous moments of joy and surprise that resonated with everyone. 🎭
But the magic didn’t end there. After the show, a real conversation unfolded. Villagers opened up about the challenges of #depopulation, #unemployment, and how modern divides—digital, generational, and social—impact family bonds. Grandparents reflected on evolving relationships, while the community collectively discussed the need for social justice and governmental accountability.
What did we learn? #Improvisation isn’t just theatre; it’s a powerful tool for opening doors to new perspectives, fostering connection, and creating spaces where people can laugh, reflect, and claim their voices. 💬💡
🌟 Spotlight on Resilience in the Heart of the Marche Region 🌟
As part of the #ImproLANDS project, we had the privilege of speaking with Giampiero Feliciotti, President of the Unione Montana dei Monti Azzurri, a passionate advocate for culture and community in the #inlandareas of the Marche region, in Central Italy. His pivotal role in fostering collaborations between local associations, partnerships, and initiatives was instrumental in the success of the project’s Italian residency held in June 2024. This remarkable event was made possible thanks to the united efforts of the municipalities of #Caldarola, #Camporotondo, #BelforteDelChienti, #Serrapetrona, and #Cessapalombo. 🤝
In our conversation, we delved into the transformative power of #culture in the ongoing recovery of these areas, particularly following the devastating 2016 #earthquake. The tragedy left behind not only physical destruction but also a profound sense of uncertainty and loss. 🌍
What resonated most strongly was a shared understanding: rebuilding isn’t just about restoring structures —it’s also about rekindling the human spirit, fostering hope, and creating opportunities for #participation and #inclusion. #Reconstruction isn’t just about buildings—, it is also nurturing a sense of belonging and #resilience among the people who call this region home. 🌱
ImproLANDS is proud to contribute to this journey, harnessing the power of #art and culture to heal, connect, and inspire brighter and more resilient futures. 💪✨
🌟A heartfelt thank you to President @feliciotti.giampiero for his unwavering support and vision, and to @paolostrologomedia (and @studio_8zero) for capturing this enriching interview.
🎥 This video is part of a series of interviews called "Faces of ImproLANDS", celebrating the voices, stories, and resilience of individuals who shape and enrich our project.
🌟 Spotlight on Resilience in the Heart of the Marche Region 🌟
As part of the #ImproLANDS project, we had the privilege of speaking with Giampiero Feliciotti, President of the Unione Montana dei Monti Azzurri, a passionate advocate for culture and community in the #inlandareas of the Marche region, in Central Italy. His pivotal role in fostering collaborations between local associations, partnerships, and initiatives was instrumental in the success of the project’s Italian residency held in June 2024. This remarkable event was made possible thanks to the united efforts of the municipalities of #Caldarola, #Camporotondo, #BelforteDelChienti, #Serrapetrona, and #Cessapalombo. 🤝
In our conversation, we delved into the transformative power of #culture in the ongoing recovery of these areas, particularly following the devastating 2016 #earthquake. The tragedy left behind not only physical destruction but also a profound sense of uncertainty and loss. 🌍
What resonated most strongly was a shared understanding: rebuilding isn’t just about restoring structures —it’s also about rekindling the human spirit, fostering hope, and creating opportunities for #participation and #inclusion. #Reconstruction isn’t just about buildings—, it is also nurturing a sense of belonging and #resilience among the people who call this region home. 🌱
ImproLANDS is proud to contribute to this journey, harnessing the power of #art and culture to heal, connect, and inspire brighter and more resilient futures. 💪✨
🌟A heartfelt thank you to President @feliciotti.giampiero for his unwavering support and vision, and to @paolostrologomedia (and @studio_8zero) for capturing this enriching interview.
🎥 This video is part of a series of interviews called "Faces of ImproLANDS", celebrating the voices, stories, and resilience of individuals who shape and enrich our project.
✨Transnational residency in Romania: a warm thank you to the local communities✨
🎭 The #ImproLANDS transnational residency in #Romania concluded last Sunday, with our international team returning to their respective countries. This residency was an enriching experience thanks to the warm hospitality of the #Magyarbikal (Bicalatu) and #Kalotaszentkirály communities, who welcomed us wholeheartedly and took part in our lab activities and show despite the winter chill.
👥We are deeply grateful to the community members who joined us, bringing energy and openness to our activities. Their participation and support made us feel at home, adding depth to our shared experiences. Special thanks go to the Kudor family, who contributed tirelessly to the organisation.
⭐ On Saturday, we held the residency`s final event, where the community gathered with us to exchange ideas on the theme that has traveled with the improvisers from our Italian residency: “the past, the present, and the future.” Together, we discussed the community’s needs and hopes for the future. Improvisers performed scenes inspired by village life, nature, animals, the bustling Huedin market, and traditional dances they learned. It was a beautiful culmination of the week, celebrating the shared stories and aspirations of the community.
👩🏽💻Also, Friday and Saturday mornings were dedicated to our mid-term project meeting. @Accademia56 presented the project’s progress and indicators. A separate meeting with project managers focused on the upcoming reporting period and future activities.
🙌🏼 Special thanks to @feryjzz , @DimitraZacharouli, @manu.delsavio , and @bilibokapollonia for their collaboration, and to the @shoshin.theatre team for their dedication and commitment to making this residency a success.
🎥 Thanks to @gianlucabudini for capturing these memorable moments on video!
✨Transnational residency in Romania: a warm thank you to the local communities✨
🎭 The #ImproLANDS transnational residency in #Romania concluded last Sunday, with our international team returning to their respective countries. This residency was an enriching experience thanks to the warm hospitality of the #Magyarbikal (Bicalatu) and #Kalotaszentkirály communities, who welcomed us wholeheartedly and took part in our lab activities and show despite the winter chill.
👥We are deeply grateful to the community members who joined us, bringing energy and openness to our activities. Their participation and support made us feel at home, adding depth to our shared experiences. Special thanks go to the Kudor family, who contributed tirelessly to the organisation.
⭐ On Saturday, we held the residency`s final event, where the community gathered with us to exchange ideas on the theme that has traveled with the improvisers from our Italian residency: “the past, the present, and the future.” Together, we discussed the community’s needs and hopes for the future. Improvisers performed scenes inspired by village life, nature, animals, the bustling Huedin market, and traditional dances they learned. It was a beautiful culmination of the week, celebrating the shared stories and aspirations of the community.
👩🏽💻Also, Friday and Saturday mornings were dedicated to our mid-term project meeting. @Accademia56 presented the project’s progress and indicators. A separate meeting with project managers focused on the upcoming reporting period and future activities.
🙌🏼 Special thanks to @feryjzz , @DimitraZacharouli, @manu.delsavio , and @bilibokapollonia for their collaboration, and to the @shoshin.theatre team for their dedication and commitment to making this residency a success.
🎥 Thanks to @gianlucabudini for capturing these memorable moments on video!
💡"Through improvisation, we rediscover the joy of connection in the unknown." – Viola Spolin
In Europe’s forgotten corners, #ImproLANDS re-establishes connection, enabling communities and artists to forge bonds through spontaneous creation.
🌍 Our transnational residency in #Romania began with a warm welcome in #ClujNapoca from @shoshin.theatre , before we transitioned to the charming village of #Kalotaszentkirály. This Hungarian-based community has been the ideal setting for deep creative work and community bonding.
The welcoming #SzentkirályPension and surrounding nature have given us a cozy space to focus and connect 🌲, while delicious breakfasts at #Muskátli Pension ☕ introduced us to local flavors and fostered camaraderie. tasting On Tuesday, we explored #Huedin’s market 🍅, interacting with local producers and tasting the vibrant local culture. Lunches with Iren Kudor offered even more immersion, as she shared the region’s culinary traditions.
🎭 The initial #ImprovLabs created space for artists to connect and prepare for their community work. Welcoming new members like #KaterinaBekou from SMouTH and #GabrielaChiriac from Accademia56 has enriched our group dynamics.
👥 Meeting community members, including local producers specializing in cheese, bread, kefir, and halloumi, highlighted the area’s craftsmanship traditions. One key exchange was with Misi, the village priest 🗣️, whose support has bridged the project with local culture and histories.
So far, this residency has fostered meaningful exchanges and growth in this inspiring Romanian setting.
Stay tuned for more updates: 💃 folk dance & improv shows 👨👩👧👦 community gatherings 🌄 nature trips & shared meals
💡"Through improvisation, we rediscover the joy of connection in the unknown." – Viola Spolin
In Europe’s forgotten corners, #ImproLANDS re-establishes connection, enabling communities and artists to forge bonds through spontaneous creation.
🌍 Our transnational residency in #Romania began with a warm welcome in #ClujNapoca from @shoshin.theatre , before we transitioned to the charming village of #Kalotaszentkirály. This Hungarian-based community has been the ideal setting for deep creative work and community bonding.
The welcoming #SzentkirályPension and surrounding nature have given us a cozy space to focus and connect 🌲, while delicious breakfasts at #Muskátli Pension ☕ introduced us to local flavors and fostered camaraderie. tasting On Tuesday, we explored #Huedin’s market 🍅, interacting with local producers and tasting the vibrant local culture. Lunches with Iren Kudor offered even more immersion, as she shared the region’s culinary traditions.
🎭 The initial #ImprovLabs created space for artists to connect and prepare for their community work. Welcoming new members like #KaterinaBekou from SMouTH and #GabrielaChiriac from Accademia56 has enriched our group dynamics.
👥 Meeting community members, including local producers specializing in cheese, bread, kefir, and halloumi, highlighted the area’s craftsmanship traditions. One key exchange was with Misi, the village priest 🗣️, whose support has bridged the project with local culture and histories.
So far, this residency has fostered meaningful exchanges and growth in this inspiring Romanian setting.
Stay tuned for more updates: 💃 folk dance & improv shows 👨👩👧👦 community gatherings 🌄 nature trips & shared meals