ISPA's 23rd International Congress was held in Brazil, the first South American Congress.
Jump to the Congress web site in English, Português, or Español for additional information

The Theme: Immersion in Diversity

The theme of the Congress was Immersion in Diversity — this was particularly appropriate given Brazil's rich cultural heritage.  The Congress explored a variety of topics including arts management models, artistic inclusion and the diversity of the arts and art forms.  Noted Brazilian anthropologist Maria Lucia Montes led the Congress off with an introduction to the social and artistic diversity that has so shaped Brazil and its people.  Throughout the Congress participants had the opportunity to hear performances from a variety of Brazilian artists (opening performance by Antonio Nóbrega pictured right) and each evening there was a multiplicity of arts/entertainment options available.

The Delegates

The Congress was be attended by 300 international delegates including Brazilian and Latin American participants involved with organizations dedicated to theater, dance and music.  The organizing committee, governed by Secretaria de Estado da Cultura de São Paulo (São Paulo State Culture Department) and chaired by valued ISPA member, Claudia Toni, included renowned partners in the local cultural area as well as a variety of international delegations.

Programming

Immediately preceding the Congress from June 8-9, 2009 was the ISPA Academy.  The Academy is an intensive arts administration training program held annually at the International Congresses.  This year the focus was on Brazil and in particular, audience development and artist representation.

As at prior International Congresses, popular program elements including ProEx (Professional Exchange) and the New Works Now (Pitch Seccion) were included with a specific emphasis on the host region (Latin America).

About São Paulo

As one of the world's fastest growing developing economies, São Paulo provided an opportunity to visit a richly diverse cultural market with great opportunities for engagement locally, regionally and internationally.

Jump to the Congress web site in English, Português, or Español for additional information