Inspired by Raimonds Staprāns

HOW TO LOSE A STATE

 “History shines in colour and is brimming with life in front of our eyes with the help of precise staging.”

Toms Čevers, "Kultūras Diena" 19.01.2023.

“A theatre experience to sharpen your judgment and perception skills."

Ilze Kļaviņa, "Latvijas avīze" 11.01.2023.

“The strength of the performance lies in the synthesis of controversial views on the history of Latvia.”

Gints Apals, "Latvijas avīze" 18.01.2023.

ABOUT THE PLAY

Inspired by the work of the world-famous artist Raimonds Staprāns and his plays.

The occupation of Latvia and the highly dubious actions of Latvian statesmen during June of 1940 is the darkest page in the country's history. At the centre of it all, stands the self-proclaimed leader Kārlis Ulmanis. His personality still stirs up discussions, and attracts radical opinions to this day– some criticize while others worship him. But what really happened? Would it have been possible for Latvia to remain independent had the leader Ulmanis made different decisions?

The show is inspired by two historic performances in Dailes Theatre – “Gūsteknis pilī” [“Captive in the Castle”] (2011) un “Četras dienas jūnijā” [“Four days in June”] (1989), and the portrayal of Ulmanis by the actor Uldis Vazdiks, first in the site-specific performance at the Riga Castle where Ulmanis used to live till his departure to Moscow.