Alexander Lubenov Iliev

Dr. Alexander Lubenov Iliev serves as Associate Professor at Bulgaria's National Academy in Sofia, globally recognized as a premier mime artist whose work transcends cultural boundaries through physical theatre mastery. His artistic identity bridges Eastern and Western traditions, with deep engagement in cross-continental performance forms.

Research focuses on:

• Physical embodiment of cross-cultural narratives through mime and pantomime
• Preservation and innovation of traditional dance forms (Kathakali, Tibetan Cham, Nepalese Dhime Nrittya)
• Commedia dell'Arte reinterpretation within contemporary contexts
• Spiritual dimensions of movement in Buddhist-influenced dance traditions
• Clowning theory synthesis from Balkan, European, and Asian sources

Professor Iliev's creative output demonstrates rigorous scholarly engagement with performance history, evidenced by etudes that meticulously reconstruct and reimagine works from Jean-Louis Barrault to Marcel Marceau while incorporating martial arts discipline. His 'Alter Ego' production represents a landmark contribution to solo physical theatre, with individual pieces like 'Horse' (inspired by Faulkner) and 'Surgeon' (tracing to 15th-century roots) showcasing anthropological depth in movement research. The universality of his physical language allows works like 'Pantalone Tells' to communicate across linguistic barriers, fulfilling his artistic mission of transcultural dialogue through the body.