Interview by Claudia Raspolic with Agata Tomšič, “Panorama”, August 15, 2026

Agata Tomšič, the art of encounter, dialogue and reflection, “Panorama”, August 15 2026

What are the reasons why you wanted to embark on a new path?

“There are two reasons: the first is, let’s say, personal because for me it is almost like coming home, to a place where multiple languages and cultures—Slavic, Latin, Germanic, and others—have interwoven and coexisted for centuries. These are multiple identities to which I have always belonged, even before I was born. I grew up overlooking the Gulf of Trieste, the Alps, Monfalcone, Mount Matajur, and with it Cividale and its surroundings, in close contact with border culture.

For 22 years I lived in another region of Italy and worked extensively across almost all of Europe, and I am excited by the idea of bringing my experiences to Cividale, to this place so close to my original identity. The second reason is linked to the professional and artistic journey I have undertaken with the POLIS theatre festival over the past 10 years, which allowed me to connect with many organisations working internationally.

It will now be a challenge to put myself at the service of a different organisation, a festival founded and supported by public and private partners. Therefore, I feel a strong sense of responsibility, both in terms of programming and finances, as well as the impact it will have on the local area. We created ErosAntEros and POLIS on our own, starting from the ground up and taking on all the risks and challenges. At Mittelfest, the responsibility is different; however, I find it stimulating, as I will be working alongside multiple stakeholders and well-established collaborators, not only within the festival itself but also within the broader Italian theatre system.”