International Improv and Playback Theatre Festival
The International Improv and Playback Theatre Festival is held in Abuja, Nigeria, and merges two performance disciplines: Playback Theatre, in which real stories shared by audience members are enacted on stage, and Improv Theatre, unscripted performance centered on connection and play. The festival features daily performances alongside workshops led by local and international facilitators covering performance techniques, facilitation, applied theatre, and ensemble collaboration. An all-access pass covers performances, showcases, open stages, and community events, with optional cultural experiences including local market visits, art exhibitions, and guided city tours.
History
The festival launched its inaugural edition in June 2026, organized by Oluwadamilola Abdulai-Apotieri through the Access to Play initiative and promoted under the hashtag #LetsMeetInNigeria. It was inspired by creative exchanges from the Vintage Improv Festival, SAVI Improv Festival, and Oslo Improv Festival.
Significance
Described as the first-ever global gathering to unite Playback Theatre and Improv Theatre under one festival, it draws local and international facilitators and performers to Abuja, Nigeria.
Need current dates or submissions? This is a historical archive. Visit improvfestivals.org for live festival listings.
How to Reference This Page
The Improv Archive. (2026). International Improv and Playback Theatre Festival. Retrieved September 21, 2026, from https://improvarchive.org/festivals/international-improv-and-playback-theatre-festival
The Improv Archive. "International Improv and Playback Theatre Festival." The Improv Archive, 2026. https://improvarchive.org/festivals/international-improv-and-playback-theatre-festival.
The Improv Archive. "International Improv and Playback Theatre Festival." The Improv Archive, 2026, https://improvarchive.org/festivals/international-improv-and-playback-theatre-festival. Accessed September 21, 2026.
The Improv Archive is a systemically maintained repository. The archive itself acts as the corporate author.