"Comfortable theater is a useless theater for social purposes" - meet Julija Petkovic

Last days of second part of my trip I spent in Novi Sad, which is the capital of culture this year. Here is an interview with Julija Petkovic, 22 year student of Acting at Academy of Arts in Novi Sad and member of theater "Promena", initiated by students, she and her colleagues, from this city. Read what Julija has to say about cultural life here and role of theater in society.

Source: Theater "Promena" FB page

You are studying in Novi Sad, which is the capital of culture this year. What does this title  mean for Novi Sad? Do people have feeling that they really live in capital of culture?

Because of this title Novi Sad is definitely enriched by everyday cultural events. This reminds the citizens that it is a city of culture. I think that Novi Sad already invested heavily in culture and events, but now, in addition to such marketing and reminders, cultural events are obligatory.

You are actress in theater "Promena" which means "Change". What change should the theater make in society?

For me, '' Promena" theater is an example of how all theaters should function. With our work we are making a change but the real change would be if all theaters would apply the same methods. "Promena" theater is a student theater, we lead it, we make a repertoire, we set the theater, we enjoy making plays and our love for theater is everywhere .

I saw that often you donate money to children, who need support for medication. Could you tell me more about it? 

"Promena" theater had a couple of humanitarian events. We always respond to such requests and on several occasions we have organized self-initiative humanitarian performances and musical events for some of our friends who needed financial help.

Let's make a connection between theater and social activism. Do you think that people in your country sometimes make shows or movies regarding some social issues because it is easier to get money from some founds? Could this limit freedom of artists or it could be stimulation for creativity?

I think there is exploitation and money laundering through projects. People who have a great desire to do something about a social problem, they do it with and without the received projects and funds. I'm sorry for the wasted money for fake culture.

What would be the role of the theater in perfect world (world without social problems)?

Comfortable theater is a useless theater for social purposes. From the theater that shows the perfect world without any problems, people get no answers or constructive help. The same goes for the opposite - the perfect world does not give anything to the theater.