The IX National Theater Festival will bring the performing arts to the entire country
The Dominican cultural landscape is preparing for a new edition of the National Theater Festival (FENATE 2026). Under the slogan “Theater comes to you,” this event promises to transform the cultural experience from October 22 to November 1, decentralizing the performing arts to reach diverse communities across the national territory.
During the official presentation of the event, held at the Ramón Oviedo Art Gallery, cultural authorities confirmed that this ninth edition will pay a well-deserved tribute to the renowned actress and theater artist Olga Bucarelli, in recognition of her career and contributions to Dominican art.
A diverse and decentralized schedule
The festival, organized by the Vice Ministry of Creativity and Artistic Training and the Directorate of Theater Festivals, will feature an offering of 32 shows and a total of 75 performances. The main objective is to break down the barriers of traditional circuits, taking theater to both conventional venues and alternative spaces.
The cultural offer is broken down as follows:
- 15 productions for traditional venues.
- 9 proposals designed for unconventional spaces.
- 5 plays aimed at children.
Training scenarios and activities
In the National District, the public will be able to enjoy the plays in iconic venues such as the Ravelo and Carlos Piantini halls of the Eduardo Brito National Theater, the Narciso González Cultural Center, Casa de Teatro, the Guloya Theater, and the Manuel Rueda. Likewise, the program will reach cities and towns such as Santiago, Puerto Plata, Moca, Boca Chica, San Luis, Los Alcarrizos, and Sabana Perdida.
The official opening of FENATE 2026 will take place on October 22nd with the performance of the play Salomé, interpreted by the Dominican Traveling Theater.
Beyond the performances, the festival will establish itself as a space for learning and reflection through a series of parallel activities. The program includes workshops, panels, and specialized discussions that will address topics such as theater criticism, the art of improvisation, puppet theater, the family approach, and strategies for the international circulation of local productions.
