Hollywood star - Willem Dafoe Artistic Director of the Theater Biennale
Willem Dafoe, the Hollywood star, will be the new artistic director of the Venice Theater Biennale. The 68-year-old will carry out the role in 2025 and 2026, according to the festival's press office. Dafoe, known for films like "Poor Things" and "Spider-Man," began his career in the theater.
"I was surprised and then happy to be asked," Dafoe was quoted as saying. "I'm clear that I'm known as a film actor, but I was born in the theater, the theater educated me and gave me momentum. I'm a theatrical animal. I'm an actor. The theater taught me something about art and life."
Dafoe is reported to have acted in the theater since childhood. He also started a study of theater sciences at the University of Wisconsin in Milwaukee, which he later dropped out of. In 1977, he founded the experimental theater group "Wooster Group."
- Willem Dafoe's extensive experience in the theater will undoubtedly bring a unique perspective to the upcoming Venice Theater Biennale Festivals.
- Many people are eagerly anticipating Dafoe's involvement in international film and theater festivals, following his confirmation as the new artistic director of the Venice Biennale.
- After a successful career in Hollywood movies like "Finding Nemo" and "The Great Wall," Dafoe continues to show his versatility, agreeing to direct the 2025 and 2026 editions of the Venice Festival, held in Italy.
- Known for his remarkable performances in films like "Platoon" and "The English Patient," Dafoe's love for the stage is equally apparent, as he expressed his delight in returning to the theater during an interview about his new role.
- During his time as artistic director, Dafoe may consider a spin-off event, blending elements of cinema and live performance, possibly featuring a movie premiere at one of the Festivals in Venice or even inviting American artists to join the event, considering his background in both the USA and Italy.
