From a Long Search to a Stage of Our Own

Our team is united by one great and living dream — to create an alternative, innovative theater in Vanadzor.

For years, we have created independently. We have experienced both successes and failures. We have staged successful performances in the Lori Province region and beyond, while also trying to bring together the artists of our city. But every time, we faced the same major obstacle — not having a space of our own. Performing on borrowed stages forced us to limit our directing choices, reduce our stage design, and constantly adapt each performance to new conditions. Without a permanent space, our efforts to unite artists were repeatedly interrupted.

After a long search, we finally found our place — the second floor of the former shoe factory located in the center of Vanadzor. It is an ideal space for creating a free, intimate, and innovative theater. We have years of experience and a strong desire to build a platform that will be fully self-sustaining, independent, and truly belong to creators — allowing them to create without limitations or time restrictions.

We have the team, the ideas, and the space, but we lack the initial funding needed to bring this vision to life. If we cannot begin the renovation now, we risk losing this unique space, and the talented young people of Vanadzor will once again be left without a creative home.

With your support, you are helping not simply renovate walls, but establish the first independent theater center in Vanadzor.

Our team

IMPACT

Foundation (1–4 months)

During this phase, we lay the foundation for our theatrical ecosystem.

Transformation of the Space

The abandoned 148 sq. m. factory space is transformed into a functioning “Black Box” cultural center equipped with modern lighting and sound capabilities.

Creative Environment

Young artists receive a free working platform and complete creative freedom without additional expenses.

Activation

5–12 months

The theater becomes the cultural heartbeat of the city.

Active Repertoire

We stage 6–8 new theatrical premieres annually and organize 8–12 monthly events, including performances, exhibitions, and film screenings.

A new alternative entertainment venue is created for the residents and visitors of Vanadzor, attracting 800 or more visitors per month.

A stable audience is formed, and the process of self-sustainability begins through ticket sales and cultural services.

Sustainable Development

1 year and beyond

“Art Fabrica” becomes one of the cultural symbols of Vanadzor.

Creative Ecosystem

A lasting environment is established in the city where more than 20 local artists (actors, painters, musicians) gain stable employment and income.

Economic Impact

The platform stimulates the local cultural economy, contributes to tourism growth, and helps prevent talent migration by becoming a preferred center for the new generation of creators.

The Problem

Young creatives in Vanadzor lack a free platform for self-expression, causing the city to gradually lose its cultural potential year after year. Skilled artists and professionals, unable to find a space and environment to realize their ideas, are often forced either to abandon the arts altogether or leave the city for Yerevan or abroad.

Cultural Vacuum

The absence of high-quality and contemporary cultural and entertainment spaces leads to stagnation and discouragement among young people. This is a challenge that requires urgent action in order to preserve the vitality of the community.

Solution

Our solution is the establishment of the independent cultural platform Art Fabrica, which will operate as a creative incubator. We are building a self-sustaining system where artists are provided with both a space and an audience to realize and share their ideas.

1. Preparation Phase (Month 1)

Finalizing the space agreement and carrying out renovation works.

2. Technical Setup (Month 2)

Installation of lighting and sound equipment, preparation and furnishing of the stage area.

3. Launch and Marketing (Month 3)

Premiere of the first performance alongside a large-scale PR campaign aimed at audience engagement.

4. Stabilization Phase (Starting from Month 4)

Development of a regular repertoire, along with educational seminars and other cultural events.

We apply an “open platform” model, where young artists are not simply participants, but co-creators of the projects themselves. This approach ensures high motivation and a constant flow of new ideas.

In designing the space, we use a “functional design” approach. This allows us to create a transformable environment with minimal expenses — a space that can shift within minutes from a theatrical stage into an exhibition hall, concert venue, or lecture space.

We also apply a participatory engagement model, where local creatives and volunteers actively contribute to building the platform. This strengthens both the sense of community ownership and responsibility toward the project.

Resources

Financial Resources — 5,811,700 AMD, allocated across renovation, equipment acquisition, and launch marketing.

Human Resources — A team of professional actors, directors, and creative young artists is already in place.

Technical Base — Lighting, sound, and video systems are already available.

BUDGET

The financial resources required for the implementation of the project are divided into two main phases, ensuring the technical readiness of the platform and the launch of its operations.

Phase 1

Rent Payment (first 4 months)

This is essential for the stable launch of the project. It will allow the team to focus on creative and renovation work without the financial pressure of the first months, until the platform begins generating its own income.

Purchase of Construction Materials and Renovation

The project includes the renovation and finishing of the space, making it possible to create a modern and aesthetic environment with minimal expenses. The funds will be allocated to the purchase of essential construction materials and the functional transformation of the venue (floor leveling, wall finishing, electrical installation).

Phase 2

Furnishing and Technical Equipment

This phase aims to ensure audience comfort and stage flexibility.

Purchase of Chairs

The availability of comfortable and movable chairs will allow the hall to be transformed according to different needs.

Heating System

This will ensure comfortable working conditions for the creative team, as well as comfort for the audience during both winter and summer months.

Multifunctional Decorations

Transformable stage elements will be acquired for use in various performances and events. This will help reduce the budget of future productions by providing reusable and adaptable decorative solutions.