Montenegro Hosts Inaugural Jagoš Marković Theatre Festival: A Landmark Event for Culture and International Tourism- Check It Out Now

Published on December 8, 2025

The International Theatre Directing Festival “Jagoš Marković” in Montenegro, held in Podgorica from December 2 to December 6, 2025, proved to be a monumental event, attracting not only theatre enthusiasts but also tourists from around the globe. This inaugural festival celebrated the life and work of the legendary director Jagoš Marković, drawing attention to the country’s growing cultural scene. The festival brought together local and international artists, creators, and audiences, marking the beginning of what is expected to become a significant annual event in Montenegro’s tourism and arts calendar.

The festival was a testament to the power of theatre to unite communities, inspire cultural exchange, and draw attention to Montenegro’s cultural tourism potential. Held in the Cultural and Information Center “Budo Tomović” in Podgorica, the festival quickly became a hub for theatre lovers and tourists alike. The opening night was a spectacular success, with the Great Hall filled to capacity, and the buzz of excitement palpable as people from various backgrounds gathered to witness outstanding performances that showcased the creativity and brilliance of Jagoš Marković’s directorial legacy.

A Week of Celebrating Theatre: Diversity in Performance and Poetics

The first edition of the Jagoš Marković Theatre Festival featured a stunning variety of Marković’s plays, each one unique yet sharing a signature mark of the director’s style. Over the course of six days, the festival showcased six selected productions that were a blend of beauty, love, humor, and deep philosophical insights into life and human relationships. The plays were a rich tapestry of theatrical magic, each night offering something new and captivating for the audience. From comedies to tragedies, the diversity of genres made this festival not just an event but an immersive experience for the attendees.

The audience was treated to the full range of Marković’s creative genius, from highly stylized performances that emphasized physicality and emotions to intimate, thought-provoking narratives that dealt with complex interpersonal relationships. The festival’s success was not only measured in applause but also in the profound impact these performances had on both locals and international visitors, who left with newfound appreciation for Montenegro’s artistic culture.

Festival Program: A Blend of Theatre, Conversation, and Cultural Exchange

The festival was designed not just as a review of Marković’s works, but also as a platform for conversation and cultural exchange. Starting on December 2, the festival included round-table discussions, where artists, critics, and the audience had the opportunity to engage in dialogues about the deeper meanings of the plays, the impact of Marković’s directorial vision, and the future of theatre in Montenegro and beyond. These round tables, which lasted until December 6, attracted both local theatre practitioners and international participants who brought a global perspective to the conversations, further enriching the experience for attendees.

In addition to the dramatic performances and discussions, the festival also offered a children’s theatre performance that brought a touch of whimsy and charm to the event. The final performance, “The Wizard of Oz”, staged by the Podgorica City Theatre, was a fitting end to a festival that celebrated both the depth of theatre and its universal appeal. The play was a perfect example of Marković’s versatility, as he demonstrated his directorial skill in bringing classic children’s theatre to life with the same flair and emotional depth that defined his more serious works.

The Impact on Tourism: Podgorica Becomes a Cultural Hub

For Podgorica and Montenegro, the Jagoš Marković Theatre Festival was more than just an artistic event—it was a tourism catalyst. By bringing together prominent international theatre companies, critics, and artists, the festival established Podgorica as an important cultural destination in Europe. As theatre festivals around the world continue to grow in importance as cultural tourism drivers, Montenegro’s capital is positioning itself as a major player in this arena.

The influx of visitors to Podgorica not only supported the local economy but also gave the city a renewed sense of cultural vibrancy. Hotels, restaurants, and local shops benefited from the wave of visitors, and the city was alive with the kind of energy that only a major cultural event can provide. For tourists, the festival was an opportunity to experience Montenegro’s theatre scene, while also exploring the city’s historic streets, beautiful landscapes, and burgeoning art scene.

The festival’s cultural tourism impact can’t be overstated. As Montenegro continues to develop as a cultural destination, the Jagoš Marković Theatre Festival serves as an example of how the arts can attract global audiences and showcase the unique local culture. By hosting an event that blends international theatre with Montenegro’s rich cultural heritage, the festival helped cement the country’s place as a top-tier destination for art lovers and culture tourists.

A New Tradition: Looking Toward the Future

As the first edition of the Jagoš Marković Theatre Festival comes to a close, it has already laid the groundwork for future editions. The festival organizers have announced that the second edition of the event will be held in December 2026, promising even more performances, deeper artistic exploration, and continued celebration of Marković’s artistic legacy. Sandra Vujović, the director of the City Theatre, expressed her satisfaction with the festival’s success and noted that it was not just a retrospective of Marković’s career but a reinvigoration of his spirit in the world of theatre.

The festival has set a high bar for future cultural events in Podgorica, showing that with the right vision, Montenegro can continue to expand its cultural offerings and attract an international audience. Podgorica’s role as a cultural hub will only grow in the coming years, as tourism continues to merge with the country’s artistic heritage.

International Appeal: The Festival as a Global Gathering for Theatre

One of the key elements of the Jagoš Marković Theatre Festival is its international appeal. While celebrating the life and works of a single director, the festival also brings together artists, critics, and theatre lovers from across the globe. This international focus fosters not only cultural exchange but also greater global tourism to Montenegro. For tourists seeking an immersive cultural experience, the festival offers an opportunity to witness world-class theatre while exploring a fascinating country rich in history and culture.

As Montenegro’s international reputation continues to rise, the festival is poised to attract even more attention in future editions. For those passionate about theatre and cultural tourism, the Jagoš Marković Theatre Festival provides a compelling reason to visit the country during the winter months.

Conclusion: A New Era for Montenegro’s Cultural Tourism

The inaugural Jagoš Marković Theatre Festival in Podgorica has proven to be a resounding success, not only honoring the legacy of one of the region’s greatest directors but also positioning Montenegro as a cultural tourism destination for the future. As the event continues to grow, so too will Podgorica’s role in the international theatre community. The fusion of artistic brilliance and tourism potential will ensure that the Jagoš Marković Theatre Festival becomes a significant fixture on the European cultural calendar, drawing visitors from around the world to experience the magic of theatre in the heart of Montenegro.