"Teatrų Vaikams Ir Jaunimui Asociacija "Asitežas"' events

About the Association "Asitežas" is an association of theatres for children and young people in Lithuania, which was founded in February 2001 thanks to an initiative started by actress Violeta Podolskaitė. The foundation was approved by institutions such as the State Youth Theatre, Vilnius Theatre "LĖLĖ" and Public Institution "Trečias skambutis". In July of the same year, "Asitežas" became a full member of "ASSITEJ", the International Organisation, which since 1965 has united more than 80 countries worldwide.  Mission and Aims "Asitežas" aims to enrich the lives of children and young people through performance, bringing together theatre actors, professional theatres and independent companies to take theatre for young audiences to a higher level. The Association emphasises children's right to a spiritual education through the arts and works to strengthen theatre as an educational space.  Activities "Asitežas" currently unites 35 theatre institutions, independent companies and individual artists across Lithuania. The association organises international and national festivals of theatre for children and young people, celebrates important dates, organises seminars, creative laboratories and actively participates in international events. One of the most important initiatives is the creation of mobile performances for a specific age group and their presentation in non-traditional spaces.  Honorary Members and Support "Asitežas" recognises and acknowledges individuals who contribute to the development and promotion of theatre for children and young people by awarding them the title of Honorary Member. Honorary Members include writer Violeta Palčinskaitė, puppeteer Vitalijus Mazūras, businessmen Aleksandras Abišala and Remigijus Laugalys, as well as the Irish Ambassador to Lithuania David Noonan.  International Activities Every three years, "Asitežas" participates in the congresses organised by the international "ASSITEJ" organisation, which provide a platform for the global community of children's and youth theatre to meet, discuss and plan future activities.  Relevance and Impact The Association of Children's and Youth Theatres "ASSITEJ" is an important part of Lithuanian culture, whose activities not only enrich children's and young people's leisure time, but also play an important role in the formation of their personalities. The Association believes that attention and support for theatre, which can effectively reach young people, should become a priority part of the State's cultural policy.