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Theater, stage and emotion: the 2025 OSTENDE Festival celebrated the talent and passion of dedicated young actors

Foto: Facebook/Centrul Municipal de Tineret Chișinău

Theater is a form of artistic expression that continues to gather young art lovers. On March 29, the National Theatre ,,Satiricus Ion Luca Caragiale”, hosted the 9th edition of the Municipal Theatre Festival for Young People ,,OSTENDE”.

Organized annually in the context of the World Theatre Day by the Chisinau Municipal Youth Centre under the aegis of the Chisinau City Hall, the event brought together young people and theatre groups from all over the capital, including:

  • Troupe ,,RE” – Academy of Music, Theater and Fine Arts with the play ,,The King is Dying” by Eugene Ionescu, artistic director: Anastasia Maraeva ;
  • The English Theatre Troupe – “Mircea Eliade” Theoretical High School with the play ,,The Wizard of Oz” by Frank Baum, artistic director: Zbancă Evelina ;
  • Troupe ,,Dante” – made up of young people from different high schools with the play ,,Home”, their own creation;
  • Troupe ,,The Breakfast Club” – “Iurie Harmelin” City Theater Lyceum with the play ,,The Breakfast Club” by John Hughes, artistic director: Oleg Cotenco;
  • The “Universal Sector” troupe – made up of young people registered individually with the play ,,Casa mare” by Ion Druță;
  • The “Teatralis” troupe – “Elena Alistar” Theoretical High School with Arts Profile with the play “The bald singer” by Eugene Ionescu;
  • The “Iurie Harmelin” troupe – “Iurie Harmelin” City Theater Lyceum with the play ,,История западнои окраины” by Arthur Laurent, artistic director: Eugen Anatolievici ;
  • The “Alistar” troupe – “Elena Alistar” Theoretical High School with Arts Profile with the play ,,Star without a name” by Mihail Sebastian, artistic director: Angela Ciobanu;
  • Teal Home Troupe – Academy of Music, Theater and Fine Arts with the play ,,Neliniște” by Ivan Viripapaiev, artistic director: Iulian Bubuioc;
  • Rezon – “Spiru Haret” Theoretical High School with the play “A Stormy Night” by Ion Luca Caragiale;
  • Berezovsky Theatre Troupe – “Mihail Berezovschi” Theoretical High School with Arts Profile with the play “Pygmalion” by George Bernard Shaw, artistic director: Victor Triboi.

Each of the 11 participating troupes put their talent to the test, performing on stage with a show that reflects their vision and acting skills.

Some of the troupe members shared their impressions and emotions during the festival.

Nichita Guriuc, a member of the “Teatralis” troupe, told us that thanks to the rehearsals and the hard work put into the staging of the show, he felt confident in every action on stage. “We all worked together, which proves that teamwork is the key to success. We had a lot of rehearsals and a lot of hard work to present what you have seen today.”

Ilinca Munteanu, a member of the band “Alistar”, told us that the intense preparation process gave her greater confidence in her own abilities, overcoming her limits and transmitting emotion to the audience. It was a challenge for me to get into the role I played. I stepped out of my comfort zone and I am glad that through my character I was able to convey a deep and emotional message to the audience.”

Another young participant from ,,RE” told us that the experience of being on stage for the first time is a special moment, full of emotion and excitement, especially when you are supported by your peers and have the opportunity to show your talent. I really enjoyed performing here today, it’s my first experience on a theater stage. It was a little bit emotional at the beginning, but thanks to my colleagues everything went well. I am so glad that there is such an opportunity for theater lovers.”

The event was also attended by Mrs. Angela Cutasevici – Deputy Mayor of Chisinau Municipality. She noted that theater art plays a fundamental role in the education of young talents, “During the whole week dedicated to theater, there were several activities both team-building, as well as aspects of oratory and scenic art, which contribute to the development of talent and skills of young people.”

Foto: Facebook/Centrul Municipal de Tineret Chișinău

Throughout the festival, the audience witnessed some intense artistic moments and the jury’s decisions were not easy.

Among the spectators in the hall, we surprised Victoria Breahna and Ariana Bulbocean. The young girls came to support their colleagues and enjoy the energy of each performance.

Victoria was deeply impressed by the talent and dedication of the participants. “Each performance conveyed emotion and creativity, demonstrating that theater continues to inspire and evolve. It’s heartening to see so many young people passionate about the art of theater, and their work deserves all the appreciation.”

For her part, Ariana remarked on the authenticity and variety of performances at the festival. “The fact that 11 student troupes managed to bring so much emotion to the stage is absolutely fascinating. Each moment was unique, each performance had something special. The atmosphere was exceptional and the energy and talent of the young performers was truly captivating.”

A highlight of the event were the musical breaks with other young artists and performers. The audience thoroughly enjoyed the songs performed by Reghina Alexandrina – an artist, Ecaterina Crijanovschi – a member of Frimu Vocal Studio and the duet Lorrette x Dan Sierra.

The festival ended with the awarding of prizes to the winners, recognizing performance in artistic interpretation.

  • First place: “Teatralis” troupe, cash prize of 25 000 lei;
  • Second place: ,,Alistar” troupe, cash prize of 20 000 lei;
  • Third place: ,,Teal Home” troupe, cash prize of 15 000 lei;
  • Mention for the best male actor: Dănilă Demin, cash prize of 3000 lei;
  • Mention for the best female actor: Cazacu Cristina, cash prize of 3000 lei.

A certificate of mention was awarded to the other troupes in appreciation of their performance and talent.

 

The Municipal Youth Theatre Festival “OSTENDE” continues to be an essential element in creating opportunities to promote theatrical art among young people, as well as stimulating professional and amateur artistic creation in the field of acting.

“OSTENDE” Municipal Youth Theatre Festival – Workshops for future stage talents

The Municipal Youth Theater Festival “OSTENDE” is a place of learning and improvement for young people passionate about the scenic art. During the event, three thematic workshops were organized, giving participants the opportunity to deepen their knowledge and theatrical techniques with specialists in the field.

Workshops with stage professionals

1. “The art of speaking. The actor’s energy and getting into the role” – held by Mariana Bratu at Botanica Youth Center
This workshop focused on diction techniques, voice projection and stage energy management, essential for an actor who wants to improve his/her stage presence and impact on the audience.

2. “Attention and scenic thinking” – held by Roman Malai at the Chisinau Municipal Youth Center
The participants learned strategies of concentration on stage and techniques to build authentic reactions during theatrical play. This workshop emphasized spontaneity and naturalness of acting.

3. “Actor Training. Working with the partner” – held by Iulian Bubuioc at Buiucani Youth Center
The workshop focused on the development of stage chemistry, natural interaction between actors and coordination in team play, essential aspects for an authentic and captivating performance.


ALSO READ: INTERVIEW // ,”I was amazed by the artistic world through its mysterious and sober aspect.” Laurentiu Ghelas – the best male actor at the 2024 edition of the OSTENDE Municipal Youth Theatre Festival


Eleven theater groups, including a group of individually registered young people, will take the stage at the festival, giving them the opportunity to present their creations and make a name for themselves in the world of theater.

The theatre troupes included in the festival program will perform on Saturday, 29 March 2025 on the stage of the National Theatre “Satiricus Ion Luca Caragiale”. The young people will present their performances in front of a jury of theater and cultural professionals.

For their effort and talent, the participants will compete for prizes totaling over 60 000 lei, distributed as follows:

  • First Prize – 25 000 lei;
  • Second Prize – 20 000 lei;
  • Third Prize – 15 000 lei.

In addition to the prizes for the top three troupes, individual awards of 3 000 lei will be presented to the best female and best male actors, in recognition of their talent and dedication on stage.

Regardless of the prizes won, each participant will go home with a valuable experience, unforgettable memories and the desire to continue creating. OSTENDE Municipal Theatre Festival for Young People remains an essential pillar in supporting the new generation of artists, consolidating its role as a promoter of young theater in the Republic of Moldova.

Opportunities for young people: 11 clubs of interest at the Chisinau Municipal Youth Center in April

Young people in Chisinau have the chance to participate for free in 11 interest clubs organized by the Chisinau Municipal Youth Centre during the month of April. They are dedicated to people aged between 14 and 35 and offer opportunities for learning, personal development and socializing in a dynamic and interactive environment.

A variety of clubs for active and curious young people

The program of clubs covers a wide range of areas, from professional development and technology to arts, financial education and health. Each activity is designed to support the development of practical skills and essential knowledge for young people.

Clubs program for April

  • Stand-Up Club – Tuesdays, 16:00 (except April 29) / Registration form
  • Robotics/3D Club – April 8, 29 / May 13, 27, 16:30 / Registration form
  • Web Design Club – April 15, 22, 17:00 / Registration form
  • Ecology Club – every Tuesday (except April 15), 16:00
  • Financial Education Club – every Wednesday, 17:00
  • English Club – every Wednesday at 17:00
  • Arts Club – every Thursday, 16:00
  • Girls’ Club – April 3 and 17, 17:00
  • Boys’ Club – April 10 and 17, 17:00
  • Cooking Club – every Friday, 17:00 / Registration form
  • Sex Education Club – April 5 and 26, 16:00

Where do the activities take place?

All clubs will take place at the Chisinau Municipal Youth Center, located at 90 Mitropolit Varlaam Street. Participation is free and interested young people are encouraged to sign up and take advantage of these opportunities.

This initiative is part of the Centre’s efforts to support youth development and provide safe spaces for learning, creativity and socializing.

Deadline extended for applying to the Municipal Grant Program for Chisinau Student Councils. Apply by April 11, 2025

Students from Chisinau who want to implement projects for the development of their community now have more time to submit their applications to the Municipal Grant Program for Student Councils. The application period has been extended until April 11, 2025, giving those interested an additional chance to access funding for their initiatives.

In order to participate in the program, student councils must submit their application to programgranturi@gmail.com by the deadline. Applications must comply with the requirements set out in the program rules, which are available online for consultation.

The program aims to fund projects that contribute to the development of the student community, with the following areas of interest:

  • Development of self-governance bodies
  • Participation and democracy
  • Promotion of a healthy lifestyle
  • Personal development of young people and life skills training

The total budget of the program for 2025 is 1 million lei, and each selected project can receive a maximum of 10,000 lei.

For further details, the program rules and annexes can be found at this link: https://bit.ly/granturiConsiliiElevi2025.

Eligibility criteria:

  • The Student Council must be formally constituted and have minutes of constitution
  • The group leader must be at least 18 years old
  • If the president of the council is under 18, he/she must designate a legal representative
  • The group must have at least 3 members

For questions and clarifications, those interested can contact the organizers on: 022 923 555 / programgranturi@gmail.com

This is an important opportunity for Chisinau student councils to turn their ideas into concrete projects with real impact on the school community.

Chisinau hosts the first edition of the Youth Basketball Championship! Teams of young people aged 14-17 can win up to 5 000 lei.

Ciocana Youth Center is launching the first edition of the Youth Basketball Championship within the Youth Sport Program. The event, dedicated to young people aged between 14 and 17, will take place from April 4-13, 2025 and will give participants the opportunity to test their sports skills in a competitive and motivating environment.

Regardless of experience level, young people are encouraged to sign up and showcase their talent in front of professional referees. Matches will take place in the event partners’ sports halls and each match will last approximately 40 minutes.

The organizers aim to involve 150 young people in the competition, promoting the benefits of sport and the development of an active lifestyle. The championship aims to raise awareness of the importance of physical activity and give participants an authentic competitive experience.

At the end of the tournament, the best teams will be rewarded:

  • 1st place – 5000 lei
  • 2nd place – 4000 lei
  • 3rd place – 3000 lei

Competition rules and conditions of participation

Entries are open from March 26 to April 3, 2025 until 23:59. Participants must complete an entry form available online: link entry.

The competition will run according to the following timetable:

  • March 26 – April 3, 2025 – Registration of participants
  • April 4, 2025 – Championship launch
  • April 4-13, 2025 – Competitions

Match organization

  • Each participant will fill in a form to acknowledge the championship rules.
  • Professional referees will instruct the players and explain the rules of the game before each match.
  • Teams will play according to the order of registration.
  • The organizers will announce in advance the date, time and venue of each competition.
  • A prize-giving ceremony will take place after the championship.

General rules and participation criteria

  • The competition is open to young people from the municipality of Chisinau, aged between 14 and 17.
  • Participants must comply with the terms and conditions imposed by the rules.
  • The atmosphere of the competition must be based on cooperation, respect and fair play.
  • Each team must respect the composition established at registration – a player cannot be part of more than one team.
  • If teams wish to add external players during the tournament, the organizers must be notified in advance.
  • Players must participate in all stages of the competition, and the organizers reserve the right to pre-select and disqualify participants who do not comply with the rules.

Judging criteria

  • The winners will be decided by professional judges.
  • Team performance throughout the tournament will be taken into account.

The event is a unique opportunity for young basketball enthusiasts to develop and hone their skills in a professional environment. Registration is ongoing – don’t miss the chance to be part of a great sporting competition!

ELSA Moldova is looking for future leaders of the right! Apply by April 3rd

ELSA Moldova, one of the leading student organizations in the legal field, is kicking off a new recruitment session. From March 14 to April 3, 2025, law students from the Republic of Moldova have the opportunity to join a dynamic community committed to professional development and promoting legal excellence.

Why join ELSA Moldova?

ELSA (European Law Students’ Association) is the largest international organization of law students, offering valuable opportunities for training and networking. By getting involved in ELSA Moldova, young lawyers benefit from:

  • Personal and professional development – access to projects and events that enhance students’ legal and practical skills;
  • Valuable networking – the opportunity to interact with legal professionals, lawyers, judges and other specialists;
  • Active involvement – the opportunity to contribute to the organization of conferences, legal competitions, mock trials and other academic initiatives.

How can you apply?

The application process is simple: fill out the online form available at this link by April 3, 2025.

For more details about the work of ELSA Moldova and the benefits of being involved in the organization, follow the official pages of the association.

This is the perfect opportunity for law students who want to develop professionally and make connections in the legal field. Apply now and become part of the ELSA Moldova community!

Municipal Youth Forum 2025: Young people from Chisinau define their European path

On April 12, 2025, Chisinau will host the Municipal Youth Forum, an essential event for the future of young people in the capital. Organized by the Chisinau Municipal Youth Centre and the General Directorate of Education, Youth and Sport, under the aegis of the Chisinau City Hall, the forum is entitled “Young People in the European Course: Opportunities, Challenges and Active Involvement”. The event will take place at the Urban Business Center, starting at 10:00.

The Forum brings to the forefront topical issues for young people, structured in four main areas:

  • European education and mobility – exchange programs, scholarships, Erasmus+ and funding opportunities;
  • Employability and entrepreneurship – European support for developing professional skills and integrating young entrepreneurs into the labor market;
  • Civic participation and democracy – the role of young people in decision-making and the promotion of European values;
  • Social challenges and local solutions – youth involvement in the sustainable development of the municipality.

The event will bring together experts, representatives of local authorities, youth organizations and international guests, giving participants the opportunity to actively contribute to the discussions and participate in workshops.


Prior to the Forum, young people from Chisinau are invited to complete the Municipal Survey on Identifying the Needs of Young People, which runs from March 14 to April 5, 2025. This annual survey is organized by the Chisinau City Hall, the General Directorate of Education, Youth and Sport and the Chisinau Municipal Youth Centre, with the aim of identifying the real challenges and needs of young people aged 14 to 35.

Why is this survey important?

  • It helps to develop effective public policies tailored to the needs of young people;
  • It helps to develop personalized initiatives in education, career, health, culture and leisure;
  • Makes young people active partners in local public administration;
  • Gives a clear picture of areas where more support and resources are needed.

The results of the survey will be presented at the Municipal Youth Forum, helping to set strategic directions for the future. The form can be filled in online at:

https://ee.kobotoolbox.org/x/Ggi3j5vU.


To participate in the event, young people are invited to register by filling in the form: https://forms.gle/shRwSU9xVhNv5gfv6.

Municipal Youth Forum 2025 is an opportunity to turn ideas into concrete actions. Young people from Chisinau are invited to make their voice heard and actively contribute to the changes they want in their community.

Medical Students and Residents Association calls General Assembly: Elections for new Executive Board  

The Association of Medical Students and Residents of Moldova (ASRM) organizes the 7th General Assembly, an essential event for the medical student community. The event will take place on April 4, 2025, starting at 16:30 at the Socio-Cultural Complex of the State University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Nicolae Testemitanu”.

During the General Assembly, the achievements and challenges faced by the ASRM in the period 2022-2025 will be presented, and the members will have the opportunity to vote for the new Executive Board, responsible for coordinating the activities and projects of the association in the coming years.

Submission of candidates for ASRM President

One of the most important moments of the event will be the election of the new ASRM President, a role that involves representing students at national and international level. Those who wish to run for the position should submit a file containing:

  • Curriculum Vitae (CV);
  • Cover letter;
  • Management Plan.

The documents must be sent by March 31, 2025, 16:00, to the e-mail asr@usmf.md.

To be eligible, the candidate must have at least one year of activity in ASRM and have been actively involved in the organization of the association’s projects. It is also necessary to have previously held a position as project coordinator, head of department, vice-president or member of the Executive Board.

The full election rules can be found here.

For further information, members can contact the organizers at 069692121 between 15:00-17:00.

The ASRM General Assembly is a key moment for the future of the organization, giving medical students and residents the opportunity to contribute to the development of the association and make their voice heard.

Source: ASRM – Association of Medical Students and Residents of Moldova USMF

Chisinau Municipal Youth Center kicked off the “OSTENDE” Municipal Youth Theater Festival  

On the occasion of the World Theatre Day, celebrated on March 27, Chisinau hosts an annual event that brings together young theater enthusiasts – the Municipal Youth Theatre Festival ”OSTENDE” , which aims to create a space for reflection on the theatrical act and to support and promote young artists in the field of theater.

By February 28, interested troupes filled in the registration form. After an analysis of the submitted videos, the theatre companies were selected and included in the festival program.

From March 26 to 28, the young participants will be involved in a series of three thematic workshops facilitated by renowned personalities from the arts:

  • Mariana Bratu, actress at the Theater ,,Geneza Art” – the workshop “The Art of Speaking. Energetics of the actor and getting into the role”;
  • Roman Malai, actor and director – workshop “Attention and stage thinking”;
  • Iulian Bubuioc, actor and director – “Actor Training. Working with the partner”.

During the opening ceremony, Petru Grecu, director of the Chisinau Municipal Youth Center, came with a message to the participants:

“The Ostend Festival comes, first and foremost, not only with a day to perform on stage and show off your talent, but also with the opportunity to interact with other young people. That’s really one of the aims of the festival and we’re delighted that the tradition continues this year.

Two former participants who won prizes at the previous edition also shared their experiences with the new entrants.

Victoria Breahna, a member of the band ,,Alistar”, winner of the first prize, communicated that intense emotions and excitement are natural for any participant:

“Last year, I was exactly in your shoes – with emotions, excitement and anticipation. I went home with the first prize, but beyond the trophy, I won something much more valuable: experience, memories and the certainty that theater is part of me. Today it is you who write the story of this edition. Be authentic and live every moment on stage.”

Vlada Ciuperci, a member of the second prize-winning “Dante” troupe, emphasized that the festival is an opportunity for personal growth and discovery:

“Young people who want to and are passionate about theater, should not be afraid, but try. The festival is not just a competition, it’s a story, where you have the chance to meet new people, experience new stories in new characters.”

Theatre troupes included in the festival program will perform on Saturday, 29 March 2025 on the stage of the National Theatre “Satiricus Ion Luca Caragiale”. Young people will present their performances in front of a jury of theater and cultural professionals.

For their effort and talent, the participants will compete for prizes totaling over 60 000 lei, distributed as follows:

  • First Prize – 25 000 lei;
  • Second Prize – 20 000 lei;
  • Third Prize – 15 000 lei.

In addition to the prizes awarded to the troupes ranked in the first three places, there will also be individual awards for the best female and best male actor in the amount of 3 000 lei, in appreciation of their talent and dedication on stage.Regardless of the prizes won, each participant will go home with a valuable experience, unforgettable memories and the desire to continue to create. OSTENDE Municipal Theatre Festival for Young People remains an essential pillar in supporting the new generation of artists, consolidating its role as a promoter of young theater in the Republic of Moldova.

INTERVIEW // “I was amazed by the artistic world through its mysterious and sober aspect.” Laurențiu Ghelas – the best male actor at the 2024 edition of the “OSTENDE” Municipal Youth Theatre Festival  

Every year, the Chisinau Municipal Youth Center of the General Directorate of Education, Youth and Sport under the aegis of the Chisinau City Hall organizes the Municipal Youth Theatre Festival “OSTENDE”. Young men and women and theater art groups have the opportunity to demonstrate their passion and acting skills by presenting a performance on the stage of the National Theater “Satiricus Ion Luca Caragiale” in Chisinau.

Laurențiu Ghelas stood out among the talented young actors who took the stage at last year’s edition. The young actor conquered the jury and the audience with an exceptional performance and was awarded the prize for best male actor.

Read more about his success, work and admiration for theater in the interview below.

When and how was your first step into the world of theater?

“The passion for theater is often born from an intense emotion that leaves a deep imprint on the soul. I took my first step into the world of theater at the age of 7, when I went to the theater and was amazed by the artistic world and the theater itself, by its mysterious and sober appearance. It was a discovery that deeply marked me and, without fully understanding it at the time, set me on a path that I would later follow with passion and dedication.”

What motivated you to take part in the “OSTENDE” Festival and what did this experience mean to you?

“Some opportunities arise when we are guided by inspirational mentors. Participating in the “OSTENDE” Festival was a challenge I accepted thanks to the encouragement of my acting teacher, as I was in a theater class. The experience I had meant more than any stage performance I have had so far. It was a time of growth, exposure to new artistic perspectives and confirmation that theater is truly my path.”

What can you tell us about the role that won you the award for Best Actor in a Leading Actor?

“An exceptional role is one that challenges the actor to a deep exploration, an emotional and psychological transformation. The role that I played is sublime and very revolting. The ‘The Fixer’, a character of fanatical and sick perfection, for whom the world is a huge machine factory, challenged me to understand a way of thinking that is alien to any humanity. It was a role that required a lot of analysis of behavior, facial expressions and body language, but most of all a deep introspection of his psychology. It was a lot of hard work, but the award validated every effort.”

In what way has winning this award marked you?

“Awards are a spur for artistic evolution and empowerment. Getting this award has given me more courage and determination. It was a confirmation that my efforts are appreciated and that I must continue to be actively involved in different theatrical activities. It helped me to gain even more self-confidence and to see theater not just as a passion but as an artistic mission.”

What are your plans for your future in theater?

“For an actor, the future is an open scenario, full of possibilities. I plan to continue to develop in the theatrical sphere, but also make the step into film. I think film can offer me other means of expression, other artistic challenges, and I want to explore this dimension of art. For now it is just a future plan, but I am determined to make it a reality.”

This year’s OSTENDE Festival is coming up. What advice do you have for the young actors who will participate?

“Festivals are great opportunities for artistic growth and affirmation. I would tell young actors to be confident in what they do, to have attitude and not to forget that through theater you educate and grow values. It is important to be consistent, to work with passion and not to be afraid to step out of their comfort zone. A true actor is more than just talent, it is discipline, endurance and courage.”

Laurentiu Ghelas’ story is an example of dedication and passion for the art of theater. With clear plans for the future and a desire to evolve, Laurentiu sees theater as a place of continuous growth, and the stage, whether theatrical or cinematic, remains the place where dreams come to life.