GEORGIJ PARO, theatre director, theatre manager of the Croatian National Theatre in Zagreb. Born in 1934. His education includes the study of philosophy at the Faculty of Philosophy and a MFA at the Academy of Dramatic Arts, both at the University of Zagreb. He was director on Radio Zagreb (1956-1957), dramaturge in Zora-film (1957-1959), manager of the CNT Drama (1959-1972), art manager of the Sterija Theatre in Novi Sad (1972-1976), dramaturge in Comedy Theatre in Zagreb (1976-1984), manager of the drama programme of Dubrovnik Festival (1976-1984), art manager in Jadran film (1987-1991), director at the CNT Drama (1984-1986), full professor at the Academy of Dramatic Arts in Zagreb (1986-1992), theatre manager of the Croatian National Theatre in Zagreb since January 1992. In addition, Mr.Paro has lectured and has been professor-in residence and workshop conductor at several American universities (Kansas University, University of California, Santa Barbara and San Diego, Pomona College). Presently he is adjunct professor at the University of La Verne. He directed more than 140 performances and often dramatised prose for the stage. His critical works and essays were published in four books (From My Experience - 1981, Made in USA - 1990, Theatralia Disjecta - 1995, Conversation with Stjepan Miletiç - 1999) and different theatre magazines and literary revues. For the artistic achievements of his theatrical work Mr Paro has received many prizes and awards. The most prominent are the Town of Zagreb Award in 1950, the Vladimir Nazor Award in 1973, The Dubravko Dujin Award in 1985 and the Krlea Award in 1990, The Mittelfest Award in 1991, The Croatian Actors' Association Grand Prix for the best director in 1993 and 1995, the Split Summer Festival Award in 1994 and 1995, the 1996 Tito Strozzi Award for Mozart’s Magic Flute. The workshop he conducted in 1996 was recipient of a special prize of the Split Summer Festival. He lives now in Zagreb.
March 1997 Interview, Inland Valley Dailey Bulletin
Georgij Paro