The Avignon Festival, long celebrated as a cornerstone of European theater, took a bold turn this year by placing dance at the center of its programming. While the shift excited contemporary dance enthusiasts, it also left some traditional theatergoers scratching their heads—and not necessarily in a good way.
Dance has always had a place in Avignon, but never as the main attraction. This year’s pivot reflects a growing trend in performing arts festivals to embrace more experimental, movement-based works. Yet, as *The New York Times* noted, not everyone was ready for the change. Some attendees, accustomed to the festival’s rich theatrical legacy, found themselves disoriented by the absence of text-driven performances.
But here’s the thing: art evolves. Festivals like Avignon have a responsibility to push boundaries, not just cater to nostalgia. Dance, with its ability to convey emotion and narrative without words, offers a fresh, visceral experience. The discomfort some felt might simply be the growing pains of artistic innovation.
That said, festivals must also consider their audience. Clearer communication about programming shifts could help bridge the gap between expectation and reality. Maybe next year, Avignon can strike a better balance—honoring its theatrical roots while continuing to champion the bold, the new, and the unexpected.
After all, isn’t that what great festivals do?
