Ivan Vazov National Theatre receives five Greek theater award nominations

The Ivan Vazov National Theatre has received five nominations for the prestigious Greek Critics Union awards for the 2025/2026 season. All nominations are for the production ‘The Bacchae’, directed by Yavor Gardev.

This Bulgarian-Greek co-production, involving the Athens & Epidaurus Festival and the State Theatre of Northern Greece, is a contender in the categories of Best Production and Best Direction. Additional nominations include Best Female Role for Lukia Michalopoulou, Best Lighting Design for Stella Kaltsou, and Best Costumes for Maria Ilenia Douladiri.

The production is scheduled for its world premiere on July 10 and 11, 2026, at the Epidaurus Ancient Theatre. Following the premiere, the play will tour various Greek stages through September. The director of the Ivan Vazov National Theatre, Vasil Vasilev, noted the significant artistic risk involved in performing at the historic Epidaurus venue.