The Independent ODA Theatre was founded at the end of the year 2002 with an initiative of Lirak Çelaj – Actor and Florent Mehmeti – Director. On March 1st, 2003 was promoted with his first play “Vagina Monologues”. This is a reason why ODA celebrates its birthday on March 1st. Many artists and art-lovers have welcomed the opening of this theatre and they continuously support it. ODA have had a big support from media since its opening.
On January 5th, 2004 ODA Theatre promoted its facilities (the only one in Kosova of this kind), where is continuing its work until nowadays. ODA Theatre is the only independent theatre in Kosova having its own space.
ODA Theatre beside its own productions, has had and will have on its stage also guest theatre companies not only from Kosova, but also from Albania, Macedonia and other Balkan countries, Europe and USA. ODA is a regular member of the biggest contemporary theatre network in Europe: Informal European Theatre Meeting – IETM as well as a member of Balkan Express (A Network of theatres in the region of Balkans)
Beside theatre performances ODA has organized and hosted different concerts, film previews, promotions etc. The space of ODA Theatre is also used for different TV Shows, Sit-Com’s, Music Videos and Films. As a part of ODA also exists ODA Gallery, where numerous exhibitions were organized. There is also a permanent exhibition with photos of ODA’s productions and historical monuments photos by Veton Gusija and Art Foto.
“ODA for youth” is a program of ODA and is a separate division with a special importance for us. “ODA for youth” is a youth club that gives opportunities to youngsters to actively take part in artistic projects that are facilitated by professionals. In the framework of this program there are produced a number of theatre performances for and with youth.
A part of ODA is “Café Bar ODA” also, with a relaxing ambient and which can be visited every day from 09:00 to 24:00. Café Bar ODA has a special corner where a library is situated, where visitors are given the opportunity to read different art books, dramas, novels and other interesting materials. Also there is an internet Wireless connection accessed throughout the space and can be used free of charge from everyone.
Until now in ODA there are more than 200 artistic events average per year with approximately 50.000 visitors.
ODA is an independent organization committed to professional development of the theatrical art, encouraging inter-relations with other arts, building strong arts and culture foundations for coming generations. ODA is determined to play its role on strengthening the cultural sector in the society and powerfully influence on building democratic and open Kosova.
ODA in a short period of time will represent a very influencing institution within civil society in general and in artistic community in particular. ODA will be powerfully influencing democratic social processes in general.
Florent Mehmeti
DirectorFlorent Mehmeti
DirectorFlorent Mehmeti
Director