Europe takes the stage at the Festival d'Avignon
Every July, artists, audiences and cultural professionals gather to discover new works, exchange ideas and reflect on the role of culture in society at the Festival d'Avignon, in France that celebrates its 80th edition in 2026.
Every July, artists, audiences and cultural professionals gather to discover new works, exchange ideas and reflect on the role of culture in society at the Festival d'Avignon, in France that celebrates its 80thedition in 2026. Since its creation in 1947, the festival has built on independent artistic excellence and creative freedom by bringing together productions and artists from across Europe and beyond. As such, it also offers a unique glimpse into the European collaboration that help performing arts flourishing across borders. Behind some of the productions presented on stage and the professional encounters throughout the city, the European Union’s Creative Europe programme is helping artists create, connect and reach new audiences. A Creative Europe on stageAmong this year's programme areCAPRA (une chèvre), directed by Jeanne Candel, andLa Parabole du Seumby Rébecca Chaillon. Both received support throughProspero – New European Wave, a platform co-funded by Creative Europe that connects emerging artists with theatres to develop and present new works through international collaboration. The festival is also expanding its European partnerships. It has recently joined the Creative Europe cooperation project “EUphoric Youth”, which brings together 11 cultural organisations to encourage young people from across Europe to actively participate in artistic, cultural and democratic life. Behind the sceneAlongside its artistic programme, the festival has long been a place where the performing arts sector comes together. Every year, theEuropean Theatre Convention, co-funded by Creative Europe, organises the “European Theatre Talks”, bringing together artists, theatre professionals, cultural organisations, policymakers and audiences to discuss the future of theatre in Europe. This year’s discussion notably explored language diversity, translation and intercultural exchange, with participation from Georg Häusler, Director for Culture, Creativity and Sport at the European Commission. The European Theatre Convention also hosted it Theatre Academy, offering masterclasses, mentoring and networking opportunities for theatre professionals. Looking aheadThroughout the festival, Creative EuropeDeskswere also present to advise cultural organisations and artists on EU funding opportunities. In particular, the newPerform Europecall for proposalsis open until 22 October 2026, helping performances tour across borders through greener, fairer and more inclusive touring models. Whether by supporting new productions, strengthening professional networks or helping performances reach new audiences, Creative Europe continues to reinforce Europe's performing arts ecosystem - on stage, behind the scenes and across the continent.