Two awards and three nominations for Vdahnovenie theater from Dolna Oryahovitsa

The Vdahnovenie ('Inspiration') amateur theater group from Dolna Oryahovitsa received two awards and three nominations at the 13th Theatre Without Borders National Amateur Theater Festival in Samokov. The recognition was for the production Nazdrave, based on a play by Pierre Chesnot and staged by the group from the Hristo Kozlev 1883 community cultural center.

Awards for acting and stage design

Maria Maglova received the best leading actress award for playing Viviane, while Lilyana Ivanova was recognized for the set design. The production was also nominated for best show. Milen Ivanov received a directing nomination, and Galin Zhekov was nominated for best leading actor for his portrayal of Ludovic Mericourt, according to RegNews.

The group also featured a first-time performer: Mihail Ivanov took over a role just one week before the festival performance when he had to replace another cast member. It was his stage debut.

The festival took place from 19 to 24 October 2026 at the Otets Paisiy 1859 community cultural center in Samokov. Its program brought together 20 amateur theater groups from across Bulgaria, with the jury assessing performances and staging across several genres.

The awards highlight the active community theater scene in Dolna Oryahovitsa. They recognize the joint work of the actors and production team at an amateur, rather than professional, competition.

Sources: RegNews, 26 October 2026; Veliko Tarnovo 24, 26 October 2026.

Photo: Rob Laughter / Unsplash (Unsplash License). Illustrative theater photograph, not taken at the performance or the festival in Samokov.