Argentinian play "Kill Me" withdraws from BITEF in solidarity with Serbian artists and students

Argentinian artist Marina Otero has withdrawn her play "Kill Me" from the 59th Belgrade International Theatre Festival (BITEF). The decision, made after weeks of consideration and discussions, is a gesture of solidarity with artists, students, teachers, and activists in Serbia who are advocating for justice and freedom of expression.

Otero explained that the team considered performing and delivering a message from the stage, but concluded that a withdrawal would be a more impactful form of support. "Canceling the play 'Kill Me' involves significant financial costs. Despite this, I am sure this is the right decision," Otero stated. She linked her action to a personal fight against "Zionism, imperialism, and power structures" that threaten rights and freedom of expression.

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Canceling the play 'Kill Me' involves significant financial costs. Despite this, I am sure this is the right decision.

Her withdrawal follows similar actions by other artistic troupes. Choreographer and director Ali Shahrur previously announced he was pulling his play "When I Saw the Sea" from BITEF for the same reasons. Media reports indicate that other productions, including "Audition" by Portugal's Teatro Praga, "Anhovo" from Slovenia's SNT Nova Gorica, and "Frankenstein Diptych" by Italy's Motus, have also been withdrawn.

The 59th BITEF is scheduled to run from September 14 to 20 under the slogan "Dare to Know." The festival has been impacted by these withdrawals, highlighting the ongoing concerns about freedom of expression and artistic solidarity within Serbia.

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This is a sign of solidarity with artists, students, teachers, and activists in Serbia who are demanding justice and freedom of expression.