São José do Rio Preto International Theater Festival launches 2026 edition

The 2026 edition of the São José do Rio Preto International Theater Festival (FIT Rio Preto) was officially launched on July 3 at Sesc Rio Preto. The 24th international edition, celebrating 57 years, runs from July 16 to 25 with free programming across 22 city venues, including theaters, squares, neighborhoods and the bus terminal.

The festival features 33 performances from groups in eight Brazilian states and abroad, with acts from Palestine, Chile and Mexico. Organizers highlighted an expanded accessibility program, offering sign‑language interpretation, audio description and sensory resources. Mayor Coronel Fábio Candido and cultural secretary Erick Soares emphasized the partnership with Sesc São Paulo and the festival’s role in bringing theater to all districts of the city.

Key highlights include ten local companies, the second edition of the International Lambe‑Lambe Theater Showcase, and a renewed municipal Cultural Plan aimed at increasing public investment in arts.