The association “Creative Box” is established in 2011 and builds up the cultural educational platform “… in Advance” – series of initiatives for young artists in different spheres of art. The common features of our projects are: target group of participants, focus on the educational module and the opportunity to connect the amateur and professional scenes.
The establishing of the platform has a few purposes. According to us, it is obvious that involving youngsters in extracurricular activities keeps them away from drugs, crime or any antisocial behavior in general. The platform develops social skills and gives the opportunity to practice role models: going on stage is a unique approach to educate responsibility – you are on your own in the spotlight, there is nobody to hide behind and nobody to blame – the audience’s eyes are on you. At the same time, the stage is also an experimental environment – that is the chance you get to see what would be like if you could be someone else, what would be like to overcome your own limits. The latter is of crucial importance for growing up and forming identity. We all know there is no easy or entirely safe way to grow up. But art is maybe the most dignified way, which, in time, also allows us to find ourselves.
Another reason behind the existence of the organization is the individual realization of the teenagers. What makes us different is our educational approach. We give you the opportunity not only to show something, but to learn something. A relationship is created on two levels – between amateur and professional scene and between students and their future teachers. If anyone decides to take up art not only as their hobby, but as their career path – there is the chance to participate in workshops, go on central stage in Sofia, before the eyes of professionals and to establish their first contacts.
The Sofia festival “Theatre in Advance” is addressed to all student theatrical formations. The condition is that the ones from Sofia participate in the competition program, however, we are open to all who would like to be our guests – we will find the right form for their performance, too, as we believe that sharing experience in art should not be put within any limits. The first issue of the festival was realized in 2011, at our own expenses. For the second one we have the financial support of Sofia program “Culture” – the festival is a part of the program supporting the candidacy of Sofia and the Southwest Region for European capital of culture 2019.
More information on future projects: together with the best in Bulgarian contemporary dance – Violeta Vitanova and Stanislav Genadiev, we are developing the idea “Dance in Advance” – a project we are already seeking financial support for. After that, young musicians (without released albums by the time) will give us the opportunity to enjoy “Rock in Advance”. Keep an eye on us, the most exciting ideas are always ahead!