✨ Experience the launch of the EU HAVE A DREAM project, held in Cyprus on October 23, 2024! This press conference marked the beginning of a unique, EU-funded journey to enhance democratic participation among young citizens across Europe. Key stakeholders, including youth, civil society organizations, and project partners, gathered to share insights into this two-year initiative focused on empowering voices through participatory theatre debates and international discussions.

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PRESS RELEASES:

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• Greek

🎭 Lights, Drama, Action… Democracy!
From January 16–18, 2025, the city of Turin, Italy became the stage for an exciting fusion of performance and participation: the Pilot Theatre Debate! Hosted by Stranaidea at the buzzing youth hub Antro, and joined by 63 participants from 5 countries, this three-day gathering turned serious civic topics into a powerful, theatrical experience.

🌍 Participants from Italy, Germany, Cyprus, Greece, and Belgium explored how theatre can ignite youth engagement, spark debate on European issues, and challenge democratic fatigue. From interactive workshops and coffee-fueled brainstorms to a live theatre debate at Via Baltea, the vibe was all about co-creation, citizenship, and creative chaos.

🗳️ A fictional EU election candidate was brought to life, and discussions on freedom of expression and sustainability got center stage. With live audience interaction, Q&As, and even simultaneous translation, everyone got involved—actors and citizens alike!

By the end, participants had not only learned new methods, but had laughed, debated, and dreamed together, making democracy just a little more… dramatic. 🎬🇪🇺

Dates:
24 April 2025 – Stakeholder Workshop
7–8 May 2025 – Citizens’ Workshops
9 May 2025 – Europe Day Public Event (Hybrid)

Location: Nicosia, Cyprus
Organised by: OTI Group
Work Packages: WP4 & WP8

About the Events

Between April and May 2025, Cyprus hosted a dynamic series of citizens’ workshops and a major hybrid public event as part of the EU HAVE A DREAM project. These activities contributed directly to the co-creation and implementation of the Theatre Debate format on climate and environment, amplifying the voices of young citizens and underrepresented groups.

🗓 April 24 – Stakeholder Engagement Workshop

Local civic organisations, youth networks, and decision-makers came together to:

• Identify urgent European issues relevant to the Cypriot context,
• Set the foundation for the upcoming citizens’ workshops,
• Highlight opportunities for democratic participation and green engagement.

🧠 May 7–8 – Citizens’ Workshops in Nicosia

Young participants worked in interactive sessions to:

• Explore themes such as the Green Deal, climate justice, and inclusion,
• Develop proposals and discussion points for the upcoming theatre debate,
• Connect with local NGOs, educators, and policymakers.

Workshops were inclusive and designed to empower youth from economically, socially, and geographically marginalised backgrounds.

🌍 May 9 – Europe Day Event: Theatre Debate Preview

A special hybrid public event was held on Europe Day with:

• Keynote speeches from political and civic leaders,
• A participatory preview of the theatre debate format,
• Artistic installations and youth proposals presented to a broad audience both online and onsite.

Over 39 participants attended physically, with more joining virtually, celebrating European values of democracy, dialogue, and sustainability.