ITFOK 2027 invites applications; Deepan Sivaraman named festival director

The Kerala Sangeetha Nataka Akademi has invited applications from theatre practitioners and groups interested in staging their productions at the 17th edition of the International Theatre Festival of Kerala (ITFOK), scheduled to be held at the akademi headquarters in Thrissur from February 21 to 28, 2027.

‘Imagining Justice’ is the theme of the upcoming edition, which aims to bring together contemporary theatrical expressions, emerging artistic voices and new perspectives from across the world. Theatre director Deepan Sivaraman has been appointed the festival director.

Known for his engagement with contemporary theatre practices and his close understanding of evolving trends in world theatre, Mr. Sivaraman has begun preliminary work for the festival. His appointment is expected to help shape an edition that explores new theatrical languages, ideas and approaches to performance.

Akademi secretary N.V. Pradeep Kumar said the festival would serve as an international platform for introducing innovative theatrical practices, fresh perspectives and emerging artists. The akademi aims to create a space for meaningful exchanges among theatre practitioners and audiences while bringing new artistic voices to the forefront.

The festival’s theme, ‘Imagining Justice’, is expected to provide a broad framework for engaging with questions of justice and the ways in which theatre can explore social realities, human experiences and contemporary concerns.

The akademi has asked interested artists and theatre groups to submit their applications online through https://theatrefestivalkerala.com/. Applications should include detailed information about the production and the theatre group, along with a video recording of the performance.

Applications that do not contain all the required details will not be considered. The deadline for submission is November 23 at 12.30 p.m.

For further information, applicants can contact 9496831694 or 0487-2332134, or email mailitfok@gmail.com.

With preparations under way under Mr. Sivaraman’s leadership, ITFOK 2027 is expected to continue the festival’s engagement with contemporary theatre and provide a platform for artistic experimentation, international collaboration and emerging talent.