Valmiera Theatre Ends 103rd Season Marked by Blaumanis Works

On June 22, after the final performance of "Skroderdienas Silmačos" (The Tailors of Silmači), Valmiera Theatre closed its 103rd season. The company gathered in the theatre's inner courtyard under an oak tree to celebrate and recognize the most active actors of the past year.

The season was marked by the works of Rūdolfs Blaumanis – it began and ended with his plays. Significant support came from the Boriss and Ināra Teterev Foundation, which made possible four new productions: "Ļaunais gars" (Evil Spirit), "Mēdeja" (Medea), "Tu būsi mana!" (You Will Be Mine!), and "Skroderdienas Silmačos". In total, with the foundation's help, thirteen new productions have now been staged at the theatre.

Director Evita Ašeradena noted that the season explored Latvian character traits and archetypes, seeking reasons for shared indecision and strength. Emphasis was placed on visuality, premieres, and first-time stagings. The audience was offered stories about women – their emotions and relationships with men, and where children fit in.

At the season's end, the actors with the heaviest workload were honored: Rūdis Bīviņš and Gerda Embure.

The new, 104th season will officially open on July 28 with a general meeting and a photo session under Kroder's apple tree. It promises a variety of forms – from deartistic comedy to epic theatre and Shakespearean performances. The summer will be shaped by the Valmiera Summer Theatre Festival, taking place for the 11th time from August 7 to 9. The program includes over ten productions for all ages, from a show for infants to the large-format country musical "Gadsimta kāzas" (Century Wedding) at the Valmiera Amphitheatre.