Protest, counter-protest outside National Theatre over John Malkovich production

George Bernard Shaw's play Arms and the Man sparks violent nationalist discontent

published on 11/9/24 9:58 AM

Photo: BTA

A second night of protests took place outside the Ivan Vazov National Theatre in Sofia, but this time there were no physical confrontations. The protest was again over George Bernard Shaw's play Arms and the Man, directed by John Malkovich.

Protest in front of National Theatre against Bernard Shaw play turns violent
No arrests have been made following last night's violent protest in front of the National Theater

Two groups of demonstrators rallied: protesters and counter-protesters, the former denouncing the play as "anti-Bulgarian", the latter expressing their discontent with the protest.

"I'm not Bulgarian and I can't imagine why this play, which is a work of fiction, set in Bulgaria, with quite charming Bulgarian characters, should be considered so offensive. I think it's a charming and funny play. It's a stage, not an arena," John Malkovich told the national media.

Many actors, including Teodora Duhovnikova, Julian Vergov and Darin Angelov, as well as politicians, turned up to support the cast and director of the show. The Mayor of Sofia, Vasil Terziev, said: "It is important to protest and to express one's opinion, but in a civilised way.

John Malkovich in the auditorium of the National Theatre.

Photos: BTA

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Protest, counter-protest outside National Theatre over John Malkovich production

George Bernard Shaw's play Arms and the Man sparks violent nationalist discontent

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