Verband Bayerischer Amateurtheater e. V.

Verband Bayerischer Amateurtheater e.V. (VBAT) is an association representing Bavaria's amateur theater community. With approximately 700 member ensembles and over 60,000 volunteers, it stands as one of the largest state-level organizations for the performing arts in Germany. The association is organized into regional divisions: Oberbayern, Niederbayern, Oberpfalz, Franken, Schwaben, and a special division for Figurentheater (puppet theater).

History

The Verband Bayerischer Amateurtheater e.V. was founded on October 21, 1923, in Augsburg. Originally named Bayerischer Verband Volksspielkunst – Kulturgemeinschaft für Volkskunst und Volksbildung – Verband bayerischer Theatervereine e.V., the association initially aimed to foster folk art and community theater, encouraging appreciation for Bavaria’s cultural traditions. Over the years, VBAT expanded its mission and influence, evolving into a central advocacy organization for amateur theater across Bavaria. Today, it supports an impressive array of theater groups throughout the region, each contributing to the local arts scene.

Mission and Objectives

VBAT's core mission is to advocate for Bavarian amateur theater within the cultural, artistic, political, and social spheres. By offering cultural engagement initiatives and educational programs, VBAT encourages collaboration across generations and addresses relevant social themes like integration, tolerance, and intergenerational dialogue. Additionally, the association is dedicated to preserving Bavarian theatrical heritage, dialects, and traditional expressions.

Activities and Programs

VBAT offers a variety of programs to enhance the quality and reach of amateur theater. It provides a statewide training initiative led by professional instructors, accessible to all member groups. The association also awards the "Larifari," a prestigious honor that celebrates achievements in Bavarian amateur theater. Additional member services include guidance on legal matters, assistance with GEMA/GVL licensing, and technical support for productions, among others.

Affiliations and Collaborations

VBAT is affiliated with organizations such as Bürgerallianz Bayern, Bayernbund, and Bayerischer Landesverein für Heimatpflege. It is also associated with the Bund Deutscher Amateurtheater e.V. (BDAT) and Union Internationale de la Marionnette (UNIMA) Germany, connecting VBAT to international networks like the International Amateur Theatre Association (IATA/AITA) and International Theatre Institute (ITI).