Prof. Kamelia Nikolova, DSc, was awarded the IKAR’2026 award for her book “Българският театър 1856-2026. Репертоарни политики. Постановъчни практики” (Bulgarian Theater 1856–2026: Repertoire Policies. Staging Practices). The publication is by the Institute of Art Studies at the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences and the “Intermission” Association, and the nomination came from the Guild of Repertory Theatre Directors, Dramatists, and Critics at the Union of Bulgarian Actors (UBA).
The book traces the history of theater in Bulgaria from its inception in 1856 to the present day in 2026, when it marks its 170th anniversary. The study examines all significant facts, figures, and processes in the various periods of its development, combining a conceptual, chronological narrative with an analysis of emblematic case studies. The primary focus is on two of the defining elements of the theatrical process – the repertoire and the performance – and, respectively, repertoire policies and staging practices in Bulgarian performing arts.
Prof. DSc Kamelia Nikolova’s groundbreaking study has been published on the eve of the 170th anniversary of Bulgarian theater and serves as its first comprehensive modern history.
The IKAR awards are presented annually on World Theater Day, March 27, at a special festive ceremony; this year marked the 52nd time they were awarded.
