World Stage Design (WSD) 2025 is set to be a defining event in the world of performance design, marking a new chapter for the global theatrical and design communities. The highly anticipated event will take place from October 18 to 25, 2025, in Sharjah, United Arab Emirates. This will be the first time that the World Stage Design event will be hosted in an Arab city, highlighting Sharjah’s growing influence as a global cultural hub. As the Project Director for WSD 2025, Jacqui George is at the forefront of this exciting initiative, bringing her wealth of experience and vision to shape the future of performance design.
A Career Dedicated to Performance Design
Jacqui George is no stranger to the world of stage design and production. With over 25 years of experience in the field, George has worked across multiple facets of performance and theatre. Before taking on her current role as Project Director at Sharjah Performing Arts Academy (SPAA) in 2018, George worked as a teacher, mentor, and leader in performance design and production. Her career spans various notable positions, including her involvement with prestigious organizations such as National Theatre Wales and the National Youth Theatre of Great Britain.
Her work in education and training has been groundbreaking. At SPAA, George spearheaded the development of the first conservatoire performing and production arts undergraduate training program in the MENA region. This initiative has provided a robust training platform for young artists and designers, reinforcing her commitment to shaping the future of arts education in the Middle East.
Why Sharjah? Why Now?
Sharjah’s selection as the host city for WSD 2025 is significant for many reasons. Recognized by UNESCO as the “Cultural Capital of the Arab World,” Sharjah offers a rich blend of tradition, innovation, and cultural heritage that makes it an ideal setting for this global event. The city is home to a thriving arts scene, with world-class museums, cultural festivals, and performances that reflect both Arab traditions and global influences. It is this dynamic cultural environment that has made Sharjah an attractive destination for global events like WSD 2025.
The event will see the convergence of designers, artists, and thinkers from around the world to discuss, share, and celebrate innovations in performance design. The timing of WSD 2025 is particularly symbolic, as it coincides with Sharjah’s ongoing efforts to enhance its international cultural profile, positioning itself as a bridge between the East and the West in the world of art and culture.
The Theme of WSD 2025: “Tomorrow’s Heritage”
One of the core themes of WSD 2025 is “Tomorrow’s Heritage,” reflecting the event’s focus on the intersection of cultural legacies and future innovations in performance design. Under Jacqui George’s leadership, WSD 2025 aims to honor the rich histories and traditions of the global theatrical community while embracing modern technologies and practices that are shaping the future of performance art.
The theme is intended to spark a conversation about the sustainability of performance design practices, ensuring that the art forms we create today can be passed down and appreciated by future generations. It highlights the importance of maintaining the cultural integrity of performance design while incorporating advancements that enable more sustainable, inclusive, and technologically innovative practices. This balanced approach will be reflected in the event’s exhibitions, discussions, and workshops.
A Multifaceted Event: What to Expect at WSD 2025
WSD 2025 promises to be a dynamic, multifaceted event with a wide array of activities designed to engage everyone from students and professionals to general attendees. Below are some of the key components of the event that Jacqui George and her team are working hard to deliver:
1. The International Exhibition
One of the highlights of WSD 2025 will be the International Exhibition, where the best in performance design from around the world will be showcased. The exhibition will feature over 100 designs selected by a jury of international experts, representing the cutting edge of design across various performance genres, from theatre and opera to dance and digital performance. The exhibition will provide a unique opportunity for attendees to witness the most innovative and thought-provoking designs from the global stage, offering both inspiration and insight into the future of performance design.
2. Scenofest
Scenofest, a core component of WSD, will be an immersive program filled with performances, workshops, and talks designed to engage participants in the practical and theoretical aspects of performance design. Scenofest will offer a platform for emerging designers to present their work and collaborate with other industry professionals. Workshops will allow participants to experiment with new design techniques, while talks and discussions will provide valuable insights into the current state and future possibilities of performance design.
3. Theatre Architecture Competition (TAC)
A unique feature of WSD 2025 is the Theatre Architecture Competition (TAC), which invites designers to create innovative concepts for performance spaces inspired by Sharjah’s rich architectural heritage. The competition aims to encourage new approaches to theatre design that respect and incorporate the cultural narratives of the region while also pushing the boundaries of what is possible in terms of form, function, and sustainability. The winning designs will be exhibited during the event, providing a glimpse into the future of performance architecture.
4. Technical Invention Prize (TIP)
The Technical Invention Prize (TIP) is another key element of WSD 2025, recognizing innovations in the technical aspects of performance design. TIP celebrates the ingenuity of designers and technicians who develop groundbreaking technologies that enhance the backstage experience, from lighting and sound design to stage mechanics and digital innovations. This competition encourages the exploration of new tools and technologies that can improve the quality and efficiency of performance production.
Sustainability: A Core Value at WSD 2025
Sustainability is central to the vision of WSD 2025. Both the organizing team and participants are encouraged to incorporate sustainable practices in all aspects of the event, from the designs themselves to the materials used in the construction of stages and sets. The event will feature talks and workshops on sustainable design practices and will highlight the importance of environmental responsibility in performance design.
In a region that has been a hub for cultural exchange and technological innovation, Sharjah provides an ideal backdrop to explore these critical issues. By integrating sustainability into the fabric of WSD 2025, Jacqui George and her team are ensuring that the event leaves a positive, lasting impact on the local community and the global performance design community at large.
Accessibility and Community Engagement
WSD 2025 is committed to ensuring that the event is accessible to a broad range of participants. The team has implemented affordable ticket pricing, with day passes available for just 50 AED and an all-inclusive 8-day pass priced at 250 AED. This pricing structure ensures that students, professionals, and the general public can engage with the event, making it a truly inclusive experience.
In addition to providing access to high-quality exhibitions and performances, WSD 2025 will also foster community engagement by offering local artists and designers the opportunity to showcase their work. The event will serve as a platform for cross-cultural exchange, encouraging dialogue between artists, designers, and audiences from around the world.
Looking Ahead: The Legacy of WSD 2025
As WSD 2025 draws closer, excitement is building within the global arts community. Under the leadership of Jacqui George, the event promises to leave a lasting legacy in the world of performance design. By blending tradition with innovation, focusing on sustainability, and providing opportunities for both global collaboration and local engagement, WSD 2025 will ensure that Sharjah’s role as a cultural powerhouse continues to grow in the years to come.
WSD 2025 will not only celebrate the cutting edge of performance design but will also inspire the next generation of designers, artists, and thinkers who will continue to shape the future of the arts. As Jacqui George leads this transformative event, her vision will help set the stage for the next era of performance design, where heritage and innovation coexist in dynamic and meaningful ways.
For more information and to register for WSD 2025, visit the official event website.
In conclusion, Jacqui George’s stewardship of World Stage Design 2025 reflects a deep commitment to excellence, collaboration, and sustainability. Her leadership promises to make this event one of the most important milestones in the world of performance design, offering a unique opportunity for artists, designers, and cultural enthusiasts to come together and explore the future of the industry.
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