aactWORLDFEST brings together community theatre enthusiasts from around the world for one unforgettable week. Hosted by the American Association of Community Theatre (AACT) and Venice Theatre from June 15–20, 2026, this festival fills Venice, Florida, with vibrant performances, immersive workshops, and a lively mix of cultures.
At aactWORLDFEST, top-tier theatre troupes from across the globe take the stage, many in their native languages. It doesn’t matter if you catch every word; once the curtain goes up, the power of live theatre does the rest.
This festival isn’t just about sitting back and watching fabulous theater. It’s packed with after-show parties, creative workshops, and all kinds of moments where you’ll meet fellow theater lovers. Picture impromptu drum circles, lingering chats in the lobby, and dinners that stretch long into the night, friendships from these gatherings last well beyond the festival.
In terms of workshops, aactWORLDFEST keeps things fresh and expansive. Dive into improvisation and discover how imagination leads the way onstage, even when words run out. Or get savvy about theatre licensing, from tricky questions to prize-winning challenges. Explore theatre’s roots in ritual with movement-based workshops that focus on presence, relationships, and genuine connection among performers.
Performers and attendees come from a wide spectrum of countries and cultures. At the 2026 festival, you’ll see representation from the Indian Diaspora, Israel, Italy, Latin American cultures, Poland, Slovakia, Switzerland, Ukraine/Russia, and the United Kingdom.
If you love theatre, or simply want a week full of energy, inspiration, and international friendship, mark your calendar. aactWORLDFEST is where the world’s stages meet, and everyone’s invited to join the celebration.
Venice Theatre, at 140 W Tampa Ave in Venice, FL, turns into a bustling hub, with three special passes available:
Star Package:
– Early check-in at a special desk
– Access to the Opening Ceremony
– Priority seating for every show in all venues
– Full entry to all workshops
– Invite to every Afterglow Party (students, bring ID)
– Admission to the exclusive Star Event (to be revealed in April 2026)
– Official festival swag bag
Supporting Player Package:
– Entry to the Opening Ceremony
– General admission to all shows (open seating)
– Access to two workshops of your choice
– Passes for every Afterglow Party (students, bring ID)
– Closing Celebration
– Festival swag bag
Ensemble Package:
– Opening Ceremony entry
– Main Theatre shows only
– Passes to all Afterglow Parties (students, bring ID)
– Closing Celebration
– Festival swag bag
Venice Theatre
140 W Tampa Ave, Venice, FL 941-488-1115
Check out aact.org for more on the American Association of Community Theatre and their mission. The festival runs June 15–20, 2026, and registration is $280 for the week. For more info and to register:
https://venicetheatre.org/international
