The Committee
- Takes note that Czechia has nominated Amateur theatre acting in Czechia (No. 02246) for inscription on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity:
Amateur theatre is a community-based activity where people of all ages and genders come together in their free time to create and perform plays. The participants are not professional actors but work voluntarily to write, adapt and stage performances, often for local audiences. These plays may include well-known works, local stories or original scripts created by the group. The performances typically reflect local life and may address social issues, creating space for community dialogue.
- Considers that, from the information included in the file, the nomination satisfies the following criteria for inscription on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity:
R.1: Amateur theatre involves acting, directing, designing sets and costumes and managing lighting and sound, with all tasks shared among group members regardless of gender. Amateur theatre groups exist in both cities and villages, and their work is often supported by local governments. The related knowledge and skills are transmitted informally, within theatre groups and families, and at workshops and events, often supported by professionals. Formal education is also offered through basic art schools, where children, youth and adults can learn about theatre. A folk tradition, amateur theatre helps keep cultural traditions alive and brings people together, encouraging creativity, teamwork and communication. It plays a strong role in the cultural, educational and social life of the practising communities, allowing people to express emotions, share stories and connect with others.
R.2: The nomination file demonstrates how the inscription of the element would enhance the visibility of intangible cultural heritage both locally and internationally. As a form of live performance that involves men and women on an equal footing and remains open to interpretation on various topics of high social relevance, the element contributes to promote quality education, gender equality, and social cohesion, by providing opportunities to deepen social relationships and enriching community ties. It also generates job opportunities for artists and event organizers. Additionally, the element helps strengthen the cultural and social identity and well-being of local residents, since the theatre company is often a distinctive feature of the community to which it belongs.
R.3: The measures proposed to safeguard the element demonstrate a well-structured and multilevel approach, engaging communities, local authorities and national institutions. They focus on structuring financial support mechanisms for shows and on transferring knowledge related to performances, among other initiatives. The responsibilities of each party involved are clearly established and detailed, ensuring the feasibility of the safeguarding measures.
R.4: The tradition bearers participated in the nomination process through three national associations, which appointed representatives to join the working group directly responsible for preparing the nomination documents. This working group organized face-to-face and hybrid meetings to discuss all sections of the nomination file, including the name and scope of the element and safeguarding measures. The nomination file is supplemented by a variety of filmed testimonials from troupe directors, actors and board members, which attests to community involvement in the process.
R.5: The element was included in the List of Intangible Elements of the Folk Culture of the Czech Republic in 2017. This list is maintained by the National Institute of Folk Culture and is updated whenever a new element is entered, or if an element ceases to exist. Furthermore, the elements are periodically redocumented (once in 7 years) along with recommendations for better safeguarding. Communities, groups and non-governmental organizations participate in the inventorying process.
- Decides to inscribe Amateur theatre acting in Czechia on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity;
- Commends the State Party for the strong community involvement in safeguarding the element, notably through integration with primary education in small communities, where schools may be the only place where children come into contact with art.