The 2008 ASSITEJ World Congress in Adelaide opened the eyes of many Australian practitioners to this incredible network of artists from over 80 countries dedicated to producing theatre for young audiences.

In May 2011 the next Congress will be held in two cities, Copenhagen in Denmark and Malmö in Sweden. If you thought the Adelaide Congress was big, you’ll be amazed at the size of the 2011 Congress – between 1,200 and 2,000 delegates are expected, as well as 25 international performances, another 20 shows in a Danish and Swedish ‘cavalcade’, a huge program of forums and masterclasses and much, much more.

For those wanting to attend, it’s time to begin planning. And if you need assistance from your organisation or funding/philanthropic bodies, then you’ll need to provide them with information about the event and detail the benefits for your professional development. Lowdown will be providing this information in two instalments written by 2011 Congress Advisory Board Member Tony Mack. This first ‘Traveller’s Guide’ is in the form of a FAQ to make your planning easier. Next month Lowdown will take readers behind the scenes, on a tour to actual venues in Denmark and Sweden with Congress organisers, giving a taste of what the Congress experience will be.

What is an ASSITEJ World Congress?

ASSITEJ – the International Association of Theatre for Children and Young People – was established in 1965. Now, 45 years later, A…