Willem Dafoe appointed as artistic director of Venice Biennale's theater department

In a surprising announcement, actor Willem Dafoe has been appointed as the artistic director of the Venice Biennale's theater department. Dafoe, a familiar face on the red carpet at the Venice Film Festival, expressed his excitement at the new role, highlighting his background in theater and his initial training as a stage actor. The program for his two-year term, spanning 2025-2026, is set to focus on exploring the essence of the body, reflecting his personal artistic journey. Dafoe's extensive experience in the theater world includes co-founding The Wooster Group theatre company in New York back in 1977, where he performed for two decades. While he is renowned for his film career, with notable roles such as the scientist in "Poor Things" alongside Emma Stone, which earned the Golden Lion at the Venice Film Festival, Dafoe's roots in theater run deep. His upcoming appearance at the festival with the cast of Tim Burton's "Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice" is highly anticipated. Living near Rome with his Italian wife, Dafoe's appointment as artistic director marks a significant milestone in his career, aligning with his passion for the stage. The Venice Biennale's theater department can expect a period of innovative exploration under his leadership, as he delves into the core of physical expression and artistic development. With his unique perspective and wealth of experience, Dafoe is poised to bring a fresh vision to the renowned cultural event.