As a theatre maker and director who tours internationally it is deeply worrying to hear of the current situation engulfing Trafo following the removal of Hungary's most important mediator and contributor to the performing arts.
The first time he brought my work to Trafo (Rotozaza's Doublethink - Feb 26-28, 2007) was a hugely positive and cathartic event for those on stage as well as those sat down watching.
I will never forget speaking afterwards to a local electrician who, it turned out, we had fooled with our fake electrical-blowout. We talked for a long time about the work, beyond this anecdote - it turned out he came regularly to Trafo.
I couldn't help but comment that in London it would be unusual for an electrician to take such an interest in alternative theatre, but he was very clear that at Trafo the distinctions between what was new or experimental and what was 'regular' theatre didn't matter, because the programming was 'always excellent'.
There isn't really much of a conversation to be had - Szabo's removal is a disgrace. With all my best wishes - specifically, that Hungary can turn things around from what looks presently to be a bleak future.
Ant Hampton, co-director, Rotozaza, London, UK
