Dubrovnik Summer Festival closes after seven weeks of drama, music, and dance

The 76th Dubrovnik Summer Festival, Croatia’s most prestigious performing arts event, is closing tonight after seven weeks packed with drama, music, and dance performances.

This year’s Orlando Award winners were announced earlier on Monday. Director Ivica Boban received the Grand Prix for her exceptional contributions to the festival over the years.

"I am overwhelmed with joy. This is an affirmation of a lifetime of work at this festival,” Boban said.

The European early music ensemble L’Arpeggiata won the award for best musical performance, while Helena Minić Matanić was named best actress for her role in the Greek tragedy Medea.

"I am overjoyed and proud to carry this on my shoulders. It is wind beneath my sails and a great responsibility for charting the rest of my career,” Minić Matanić said.

Culture and Media Minister Nina Obuljen Koržinek praised the festival for maintaining a high standard over its long history.

"The bar is lifted higher every year. It was nearly impossible to get tickets—most of the drama and musical performances were sold out. This festival, with its program and performances, is comparable to any major global performing arts festival,” Obuljen Koržinek said.