Riga’s vibrant theater scene is preparing for the 2025/2026 season, promising a diverse program of classic works, contemporary interpretations, and ambitious new productions. From satirical explorations of modern family life to thought-provoking examinations of artificial intelligence, Latvian stages are set to offer a rich cultural experience for audiences. The anticipation builds as theaters finalize plans, with premieres scheduled throughout the fall and winter months, signaling a dynamic period for the performing arts in Latvia.
The upcoming season reflects a commitment to both honoring Latvia’s theatrical heritage and embracing innovative approaches to storytelling. Several productions will grapple with complex social issues, while others will celebrate national identity through reinterpretations of beloved literary works. This blend of tradition and innovation aims to attract both seasoned theatergoers and new audiences, solidifying Latvia’s position as a significant cultural hub in the Baltic region. The season’s offerings also highlight collaborations with international artists and institutions, further enriching the artistic landscape.
As marked by the recent celebration of International Theatre Day on March 27th, the Latvian theater community is thriving, with recognition given to outstanding contributions through the annual awards presented by the Latvian Theatre Workers’ Union (LTDS). This year’s accolades included honors for actors Māra Mennika (Valmiera Drama Theatre) and Mārtiņš Kalita (Liepāja Theatre), as well as director Pēteris Krilovs. The introduction of the Andra Freiberga Award, recognizing excellence in visual design for theater productions, further underscores the importance of all artistic disciplines within the performing arts.
Dailes Theatre: Satire and Scientific Inquiry
Dailes Theatre will kick off its new season with a provocative lineup, beginning on September 5th with the Latvian premiere of Marius von Mayenburg’s darkly humorous satire, “NACHTLAND,” directed by Toms Treinis. The play delves into the complexities of contemporary family relationships and moral dilemmas. Dailes Theatre’s website details the production as a sharp commentary on modern life. Following this, on September 19th, the theatre will present “ORĀKULS,” the second collaboration between Dailes Theatre and Polish director Łukasz Twarkowski. This ambitious production, part of Twarkowski’s science trilogy, explores themes of future prophecies and the implications of artificial intelligence, developed in partnership with several European theaters and festivals.
Beyond these premieres, Dailes Theatre’s repertoire will continue to include established favorites such as “Anarhistu nejaušā nāve” (The Accidental Death of an Anarchist), “Īsti rietumi” (Truly West), “Milzis” (The Giant), “Nāve un meitene” (Death and the Maiden), “Pirmavots” (The Source), “Rīkojums Nr. 2” (Order No. 2), “Runcis zābakos” (Puss in Boots), “Sapnis par rudenī” (A Dream of Autumn), and “Sapņu novele” (A Novel of Dreams). The theatre will also host productions from Valmiera Theatre and its traditional Christmas concert, “Pēkšņi gaismā” (Suddenly in the Light).
National Theatre: Fire, Classics, and Celebrations
Latvia’s National Theatre is embarking on its 107th season under the motto “Kvēlās ugunis” (Burning Fires), opening with a new production of Rainis’s play “Indulis un Ārija” on September 20th. This staging, directed by Indra Rogas, will feature the Valsts Akadēmisko kori “Latvija” (State Academic Choir “Latvia”) and music composed by Ēriks Ešenvalds. The National Theatre’s official site confirms the collaboration with the renowned choir. The season will also honor the 80th birthday of Uldis Stabulnieks with a concert performance of “Dievišķās nejaušības” (Divine Coincidences), directed by Marija Bērziņa.
The National Theatre’s program will also feature works by other Latvian authors and emerging directors, including Gusta Ābele’s “Klusums un troksnis” (Silence and Noise). Looking ahead to its 108th season, the theatre plans to celebrate Anšlavs Eglītis with a production of “Līgavu mednieki” (The Bride Hunters) and commemorate Mārtiņš Brauns with a jubilee concert. Further productions include Inese Mičule’s “Ugunī” (In the Fire), which emphasizes sustainable and eco-friendly stage design, and Regnārs Vaivars’s interpretation of Jānis Jaunsudrabiņš’s “Atbalss Aija” (Echo Aija). The theatre is also streamlining its subscription services, offering more flexible options and date changes for ticket holders.
New Riga Theatre: A Fall and a Passion for Hockey
The New Riga Theatre (JRT) has adopted the motto “Kritiens augšup” (Fall Up) for its new season, encouraging audiences to seek strength and solutions in challenging times. The season will feature 13 new productions exploring themes of human resilience, meaningful living, and navigating crisis. One of the first premieres is Vilnis Daudziņš’s staging of “Ledus garša” (The Taste of Ice), a play dedicated to hockey and its significance in Latvia, scheduled for September 2nd.
Alvis Hermanis will direct “Kritiens augšup” (Fall Up), based on the book by Joachim Meierhoff, which examines the hidden aspects of an actor’s profession and the surprises encountered along the way. JRT’s repertoire will also include a production of “Docentes” by Finnish playwright Juha Jokela, exploring the challenges facing contemporary universities. The theatre’s commitment to contemporary themes and innovative staging continues to position it as a leading force in Latvian theatre.
Latvian National Opera and Ballet: New Productions and Stellar Performances
The Latvian National Opera and Ballet will present a diverse program for the 2025/2026 season, including new ballet productions such as a joint performance of “Kaktusi” (Cacti) and “Koncerts (jeb Briesmas ikvienam)” (Concert (or Troubles for Everyone)), showcasing both 20th-century ballet classics and contemporary choreography. On February 17th, the opera will premiere a double bill of Pietro Mascagni’s “Zemnieka gods” (Cavalleria Rusticana) and Ruggero Leoncavallo’s “Pajaci,” directed by Aika Karapetjan. The season will culminate on June 3rd with the premiere of Giacomo Puccini’s “Bohēma,” a story of youth, dreams, and love.
The Latvian theatre landscape is clearly vibrant and forward-looking. As the 2025/2026 season unfolds, audiences can anticipate a compelling array of performances that reflect Latvia’s rich cultural heritage and its commitment to artistic innovation. The next key date to watch is September 2nd, with the premiere of “Ledus garša” at the New Riga Theatre, marking the official launch of the new season’s offerings.
What productions are you most looking forward to seeing? Share your thoughts in the comments below and facilitate spread the word about Latvia’s thriving theatre scene!
Keep reading
