Cultural developments in Rijeka and Belgrade theatre

The theatrical production ‘Čvor’, a collaborative project by Kolektiv Igralke and Slovenian director Žiga Divjak, explores the intersection of personal biography and the socio-economic history of Rijeka. Through intimate narratives from performers Klara Kovačić, Anja Sabol, and Vanda Velagić, the play examines the city’s transition from an industrial hub defined by shipyards and factories to a modern economy increasingly reliant on tourism and real estate.

In a separate cultural development, the Drama Ensemble of the National Theatre in Belgrade has faced scrutiny following the permanent hiring of two actresses, Maja Kundačina and Jovana Jelić. Critics have raised questions regarding the transparency of the recruitment process, noting the lack of public competitions or discussions by the Artistic Council, and highlighting the personal connections of the new hires to existing theater and media figures.