Carnival Unmasked – IFTR goes Cologne

Before the International Federation for Theatre Research gathers in Cologne this June, Carnival Unmasked-IFTR goes Cologne peels back the layers of a truly local phenomenon with global resonance. This isn't just about parades and costumes; it's an audio exploration of carnival as a powerful, living performance. Guided by the IFTR 2025 Podcast Hosts, each episode grapples with the conference's compelling theme: Performing Carnival: Ekstasis, Subversion, Metamorphosis. What does it mean to embody ecstatic release, to perform social critique, or to undergo public transformation? We move beyond theory by speaking directly with artists, scholars, and cultural custodians who live this practice. Listeners will hear nuanced conversations that unpack how the rebellious spirit of carnival challenges norms, creates temporary communities, and serves as a vital form of cultural expression. This podcast serves as a prelude to the Cologne conference, building a richer understanding of how carnival operates not merely as celebration, but as a complex, transformative force within society and the performing arts. Tune in for a series that is as intellectually engaging as it is surprising, revealing the profound depths hidden within the masquerade.