Ballet Under the Stars

The creative strength of the event lies in its concept—bringing classical ballet out of institutional settings and placing it directly among the people. Guided by openness and shared space, the square becomes a stage, the city a venue, and passers-by become the audience. The event integrates the architectural features of the square into the scenography, creating a unique visual and spatial experience. It also brings together a wide network of partners—cultural, tourism, and municipal institutions—forming a creative model of public collaboration. This fusion of high art with public space and broad participation gives the event its distinct identity.

The event’s innovation is rooted in a conceptual framework developed by Slovene National Theatre Maribor within the European project STAGES (Sustainable Theatre Alliance for a Green Environmental Shift) and aligned with the Green Theatre Book guidelines. Ballet Under the Stars is more than a performance—it is a sustainability experiment in public space: no building, no tickets, minimal footprint, maximum reach. It uses repurposed stage structures, local services, energy-efficient lighting, and open access for all. Innovation is not limited to artistic expression but extends to institutional and social practices, redefining how theatre can exist and engage with its community in environmentally and socially responsible ways.

In 2024, more than 200 square meters stage was installed in the center of Maribor’s Main Square, equipped with a professional ballet floor, lighting, and an audio system adapted for open-air performance. Over 50 members of the technical and production crew and more than 30 dancers and soloists from Slovene National Theatre Maribor Ballet took part. Security and logistics were coordinated closely with city services. The event was executed smoothly, with a backup date scheduled for the following day. Technical tests, rehearsals, and logistical run-throughs were conducted in advance to ensure seamless delivery. Strong collaboration between the theatre, local authorities, and partners enabled professional project management and efficient on-site operations.

Ballet Under the Stars 2024 attracted several thousand visitors and received extensive media coverage, including national television (RTV Slovenia), press agencies (STA), daily newspapers (Večer), and local radio stations. Social media engagement was excellent, amplifying the event’s visibility. Visitors praised the artistic quality, accessibility, and atmosphere. The event significantly boosted the visibility of cultural programming in public space, increased foot traffic in the city center, and enhanced Maribor’s reputation as a city of culture. The return on investment was reflected in broad public reach, strengthened community engagement, and elevated cultural branding for the city with minimal financial input.

The event was promoted through both traditional and digital channels as part of a coordinated communication strategy. Key partners—Slovene National Theatre Maribor, Maribor Tourist Board, Narodni dom, and Association EZL EK—aligned their messaging under a unified visual identity. Information was shared in both Slovenian and English. Posters, flyers, and announcements were distributed across cultural institutions, tourist hubs, and online platforms. Promotional videos, Instagram stories, a press conference, and collaborations with local influencers and media partners proved especially effective. The communication campaign successfully positioned the event within the broader cultural and tourism narrative of the city.

The event takes place entirely within a pedestrian zone, creating no additional traffic burden. All communication is conducted through digital channels, minimizing printed materials. Technical equipment, including lighting and stage structures, is energy-efficient and reused across events. The scenography is adapted to existing urban features, reducing the need for additional construction. No food stands or packaging waste are present during the event. Attendees are encouraged to use public transport—free city buses are available—or to come on foot. More broadly, the event promotes sustainable cultural practices by returning art to shared public space, free of charge and accessible to all, reinforcing inclusion and environmental responsibility.