Common Tongue II

Eighty years after the Holocaust, Europe commemorates the victims of war and National Socialism – but Sinti*zze and Rom*nja and their history and realities of life remain largely invisible. While populists stir up fears of migration and right-wing extremists openly live out their hatred, minorities fight against exclusion, poverty and exploitation. Yet migrants are indispensable in our society – they keep care, social services and infrastructure running. At the same time, the climate catastrophe, economic pressure and social inequalities are intensifying – and paralyzing civil society.

In light of these challenges, RomaTrial brings ‘COMMON TONGUE II’- the Roma Theatre Festival, with Roma* ensembles from various European countries to challenge these gaps in Eurocentric history and give voice to the diverse experiences of Roma and Sinti communities.

At a time when right-wing extremism, populism, and exclusion are on the rise, the festival positions itself as a political and artistic space for resistance and solidarity. Over six days, invited artists will present performances addressing memory culture, social participation, and empowerment, while critically reflecting on power dynamics both within Europe and their own communities. In doing so, they will search for a common language: What do Roma* have in common apart from discrimination? How is equality possible after centuries of oppression and in the face of persistent inequalities? And what lessons from history can Roma* memories offer for a more democratic future 80 years after Auschwitz?

COMMON TONGUES invites everyone to remember, discuss and experience the power of a vibrant, resistant culture – for a polyphonic Europe in the name of humanism, enlightenment, and solidarity.

The full program will be announced soon.

For any queries, please contact Pooja (Program Manager) at info@romatrial.org