The Rector of Shota Rustaveli Theatre and Film Georgia State University, George Shalutashvili, and the University’s International Relations Coordinator, Ana Kvinikadze, participated in the VII International Presidents’ Conference of the World Theatre Education Alliance (WTEA), held on 19-23 September 2026 at the Central Academy of Drama in Beijing.
The 2026 Conference was held under the theme “The Future of Theatre Education: Theatre Education in Transition - New Pedagogies for a Changing World,” initiated by Shota Rustaveli Theatre and Film Georgia State University and adopted by WTEA as the central theme of the Conference. The Conference was officially opened by Rector George Shalutashvili, who delivered opening remarks on current developments and future perspectives in theatre education.
The Conference brought together representatives of leading theatre education institutions from China, Bulgaria, Georgia, Germany, Greece, the Republic of Korea, the United Kingdom, the United States, Egypt, and other countries.
During the visit, the University representatives held bilateral meetings with international partner institutions, including the Central Academy of Drama (Beijing), Ernst Busch University of Theatre Arts Berlin, and LAMDA - London Academy of Music & Dramatic Art. The meetings identified new opportunities for cooperation in the areas of masterclasses, international projects, and academic and professional initiatives.
Participation in the WTEA Conference and the opportunities for developing new partnerships represent another important step towards expanding the University’s international network, strengthening international opportunities and experience for students and academic staff, and promoting Georgian theatre education within the international academic and professional community.