Laura Directs Laizāns in Play Exploring Ideal Relationships | Latvian National Theatre

Riga, Latvia – The Latvian National Theatre saw the premiere of “Silk Worm,” a new play based on the 2008 literary debut by Gunta Bojārs, on February 26th. The production marks the directorial debut of LAURA at the National Theatre, and is already sparking conversation for its intimate exploration of love, desire, and infidelity. The play, described as a nearly one-man show, features Normunds Laizāns in the central role, delving into complex themes of modern relationships and the search for genuine connection. This production of “Silk Worm” promises a raw and emotionally resonant experience for audiences, and is quickly becoming a focal point in Latvia’s cultural landscape.

The play centers on a man consumed by a lifelong quest for “the one,” a search that leads him down a path of fleeting connections and the often-destructive power of lust. As dramatist Artūrs Dīcis puts it in the play’s annotation, “Copy and then Paste. Paste. Paste. Paste. In minutes, you can write to a hundred women: ‘When I saw you, time stopped. I looked at your pictures and my heart escaped, it jumped out the window and is on its way to you. How do we solve this problem?’” This evocative imagery sets the stage for a performance that promises to be both deeply personal and universally relatable, exploring the anxieties and aspirations of contemporary men navigating the complexities of love. The production aims to resonate with anyone who has experienced, desires, or dreams of ideal relationships.

A Director’s Vision: Intimacy and Emotional Impact

For LAURA, known for her work on both large-scale theatrical and operatic productions, as well as more experimental pieces in smaller venues, directing a play centered around a single performer presented a unique challenge. She explained that achieving the same emotional impact as a larger ensemble required a different approach, one that relies heavily on the skill and presence of the lead actor. “It has to have the same emotional impact as a large cast of actors,” LAURA stated. “It’s very exciting to watch when you have a good actor, and I think What we have is one of those cases where people will be very interested. Because the story itself is very emotionally extensive.” The Latvian National Theatre highlights LAURA’s extensive experience as a key factor in bringing this challenging work to life.

From Journalist to Playwright: The Source Material

The source material for “Silk Worm” comes from Gunta Bojārs, a figure perhaps better known to the Latvian public as a journalist, the creator of the program “Aizliegtais paņēmiens” (Forbidden Technique), and the chief editor of LTV News. Bojārs’s 2008 book, his first published literary work, explores the universal human desire for true love, and the obstacles – particularly infidelity and sexual desire – that often stand in the way. The play promises to unpack these themes with honesty and vulnerability, offering a compelling portrait of modern relationships. The play’s exploration of these themes is particularly relevant in today’s society, where the search for meaningful connection often occurs amidst a landscape of fleeting encounters and digital distractions.

The Creative Team and Cast

The artistic team behind “Silk Worm” includes dramatist Artūrs Dīcis, set and costume designer Artūrs Virtmanis, lighting designer Krista Erdmane, and sound designer Kristaps Diura. The production features Normunds Laizāns in the leading role, with Jana Ļisova or Līga Zeļģe also appearing in the cast. The combination of this talented team and the compelling source material suggests a production that will be both visually striking and emotionally resonant. The Latvian National Theatre’s commitment to showcasing innovative and thought-provoking work is evident in its choice of this project and its creative team.

Upcoming Performances and Ticket Information

Additional performances of “Silk Worm” are scheduled for February 28th, March 1st, 11th, 22nd, and 29th. Tickets are available through the “Biļešu paradīzes” ticket offices and website. Those interested in attending are encouraged to purchase tickets in advance, as demand is expected to be high. The Latvian National Theatre continues to be a vibrant hub for cultural activity in Riga, and “Silk Worm” is poised to be one of its most talked-about productions of the season.

The Latvian National Theatre encourages audiences to stay updated on its activities through its website, www.teatris.lv, and its social media channels on Facebook, X.com, and Instagram. The theatre’s commitment to engaging with its audience extends beyond the stage, fostering a community of theatre lovers and supporters.

As “Silk Worm” prepares for its upcoming performances, audiences are invited to contemplate the play’s central question: what does the ideal relationship look like? The production promises to be a thought-provoking and emotionally charged experience, sparking conversations about love, desire, and the complexities of human connection. The next scheduled performance on February 28th offers the next opportunity to witness this compelling new work.

What are your thoughts on the themes explored in “Silk Worm”? Share your comments below and join the conversation.