Nicosia, Cyprus. Theatre is a fundamental pillar of Cyprus’ cultural self-awareness, President Nikos Christodoulides said on Tuesday at the Thoc Theatre Awards ceremony for 2025. He described culture as a source of support and hope amid geopolitical tensions and multiple challenges.
Culture and democracy
Christodoulides said the ceremony was not only about honouring artists individually, but also about highlighting the essential role of theatre as a key pillar of cultural self-awareness.
He said culture can provide “an outlet, support and hope” in the current global climate. He added that Cyprus’ presidency of the Council of the European Union offered an opportunity to emphasise, through action, the role of culture, creativity, dialogue and civic participation in strengthening democracies and enriching Europe’s diversity.
EU cultural roadmap
Christodoulides said one of the presidency’s important achievements was an agreement among all 27 member states on a strategic cultural roadmap aimed at placing culture at the heart of the EU’s identity, society and economy.
He also said the cultural programme designed by the deputy ministry of culture was an integral part of the Cyprus presidency’s strategy. According to him, it marked the first time a unified cultural narrative had been created to present Cyprus’ cultural heritage, contemporary creativity and cultural diplomacy as a continuous and living process.
Government support for theatre
Referring to state support for theatre in Cyprus, Christodoulides said the state theatre receives annual funding of €5.3 million, while independent theatre receives €1.4 million each year.
He added that 16 theatre organisations and groups of individuals received €170,000 this year for various activities.
Christodoulides said the government has also introduced a scheme covering operating expenses for theatre organisations with their own premises, with annual funding of €250,000, in recognition of the need to strengthen the sustainability of theatre organisations.
He also highlighted a support scheme for cultural creators that allows theatre artists and others to attend training abroad and take part in international festivals, platforms and networks.