Velimir Velev

Prof. Velimir Velev is a Bulgarian theater director, actor, set designer, and educator. He serves as Head of the Department of Dramatic Theater at the National Academy of Dramatic Arts and Sciences in Sofia, leading the 'Movement Theater (PM)' bachelor's program. His academic roles include Professor of Stage Movement, Improvisation, and multiple theater disciplines. He has pioneered methodologies like the 'Meta Method' and 'Theory of the Interactive Spectacle of the Future,' and created the genre 'Non-Physical Theater.' Velev is founder/director of Via Interactive Theater, Unseen Theater (featuring blind actors), and the School of Sight collaboration initiative.

His career spans institutions like the Osijek Academy of Arts (Croatia), Montenegrin Faculty of Dramatic Arts, and Germany's Darmstadt State Theatre. Awards include Croatia's 'Vrhunski Umjetnik' title and Germany's Youth Democracy Award for his inclusive theater projects. Velev has directed over 60 performances and collaborated with prominent directors including Yulia Ognyanova and Tedi Moskov.

Research focuses on experimental theater forms, digital cultural heritage, and inclusive performance practices. Current projects include the 'School for Vision' and participation in EU cultural initiatives like ELIA Future Arts. He holds grants from Telus International and maintains international academic partnerships across Europe.