WORKSHOP WITH ZIJAH A. SOKOLOVIC

The “North” Hall of the National Theatre became the stage for a creative workshop led by Bosnian actor Ziyah Sokolović. The event took place from May 21 to 23, featuring full-day sessions.

Participants in the masterclass included students of acting and dance theatre, as well as professional actors and directors, including members of the National Theatre troupe. Among the attendees was a Bosnian actress who had come to study in Bulgaria.

On the first day of the workshop, Ziyah Sokolović offered strawberries to the participants, drawing an analogy between the taste of the fruit and what happens on stage – “a moment that can never be repeated.”

“The metaphor with the strawberries can also be applied to actors: some are ripe, others are green. Each is unique, each has individual qualities, as well as opportunities ahead. The key is to develop one’s potential to the fullest.”

Based on his extensive experience performing before audiences and his deep knowledge of theatrical art, Ziyah Sokolović guided the participants through a series of exercises designed to master the tools necessary for expressing thoughts and emotions on stage. Special emphasis was placed on gestures as carriers of information that the actor communicates to the audience.

On the final day of the workshop, Ziyah Sokolović held a working meeting with the Director of the National Theatre, Vasil Vasilev.

The three-day creative workshop with the Bosnian actor was organized by SPAM Studios, with the financial support of the National Culture Fund under the One-Year Grant Program 2022, in partnership with the National Theatre “Ivan Vazov.”