The article discusses the recent decisions made by the committee of the Ministry of Culture's Theater program in Poland, which has notably excluded critical theater festivals from receiving governmental funding. The festivals affected include prominent events such as the International Festival Divine Comedy in Krakow, the International Contact Festival in Torun, the Nationwide Festival of Director's Art 'Interpretations' in Katowice, and the Theatrical Confrontations Festival in Lublin. The committee, consisting of university faculty members and experts, has been criticized for not allocating any funds to these established festivals, marking a stark contrast to previous support.

Concerns about economic censorship have been voiced, particularly as the committee's actions mimic censorship practices seen during the rule of the United Right party in Poland. The total denial of funding to these festivals has been interpreted as a targeted exclusion rather than a reduction of funds, which reflects a troubling trend in the cultural policy of the Polish government to control artistic expression through financial means. The decisions reveal the evolving landscape in Polish theater culture where fewer festivals may lead to a homogenization of artistic voices.

Furthermore, the composition of the committee raises questions about the motivations behind these decisions, as many members are also educators in academic institutions. This dual role suggests potential conflicts of interest and brings into question the inclusivity of the arts in higher education. Critics argue that such actions not only undermine the theater community but also restrict opportunities for cultural dialogue and innovation within Poland, indicating a significant shift in how the arts are supported at the national level.