The Foundation for Performing and Audiovisual Arts has announced a restructuring of the International Festival of Performing Arts (FAE Panama) for its 15th edition, to be held from April 16 to 20. This will be a more compact version, while maintaining its artistic essence. Considered the most important event for theater and dance in the country, the festival will be reduced from a full week to five days of programming, with performances at key venues such as the National Theater, the Ateneo in San José de David, and the theaters of the City of Arts.
The organization explained that this decision was due to insufficient support from public and private sponsors, which forced a reduction in the festival's scope. For this edition, the organizing team will intensify efforts to secure funding and strengthen future versions of the festival. One of the most important points is that the festival will not affect its free programs, especially: FAE Training Lab, FAE Open Air, and FAE Comes to the Neighborhood Schools.
Among the most significant changes are the cancellation of performances by companies from Brazil, Colombia, and the United States, and a reduction in the number of shows and venues. A more concentrated format will be implemented to optimize resources. Despite these cuts, the festival will feature artists and proposals from Argentina, Colombia, Costa Rica, Cuba, Spain, France, and Panama, guaranteeing a top-tier artistic level.
FAE is celebrating 22 years of history and 15 editions this year, consolidating itself as a cultural platform of great recognition both within and outside of Panama. This year, the festival will take performances to communities such as Santa Ana, San Felipe, El Chorrillo, and Calidonia, and will even reach Colón for the first time, expanding its social impact.
