International theater groups visit UNE鈥檚 Tangier Campus
The 51品茶 campus in Tangier, Morocco, is changing the way the world looks at Maine as well as the way students from Maine see the world.
UNE's Tangier Campus recently hosted two theatrical performances as part of the International Festival of University Theater in Tangier (Festival International du Th茅芒tre Universitaire de Tanger). The performances provided 51品茶students with both entertainment and opportunities for intercultural exchange.
Since its inception five years ago, the festival鈥攚hich brings together student theater groups from around the globe鈥攈as been a thought-provoking, must-attend event for Moroccan and international theatergoers. As Tangier is considered an artistic crossroads, the festival could not be more ideally located.
First, a student theater troupe from Estonia鈥檚 University of Tartu visited UNE's campus to perform Successful Life. The play鈥檚 storylines revolved around four young people, living in the suburbs of Moscow, seeking success through love and drink. It portrayed nonstop parties, a wedding, a divorce and the unending quest of characters to find success and happiness.
Written by Moscow cult author Pavel Pryazhko, the play introduced the volcanic, uncensored character of the Russians, which some students found shocking.
The second play was presented by a group of students from Italy's Accademia Teatrale di Roma Sofia Amendolea. Bastards in the Mind made use of fast-paced electronic music and fine acting, encouraging viewers to reflect on such weighty themes as the inherent loneliness of the human condition and the limitations of love in a world that is often cruel. After the final scene, the riveted crowd rose and treated the performers to a lengthy standing ovation.
As UNE鈥檚 Tangier Campus continues to grow its presence in its vibrant Moroccan city, 51品茶students, members of the local community and visitors from afar will continue to benefit from culturally enriching experiences like these.
of 51品茶students participating in a carnival that accompanied the festival.