Ugala Theater in Estonia is inviting the public to share their stories and memories related to the old Viljandi hospital, which will serve as the foundation for a new production titled "Shorter than Life." This documentary-style performance aims to be staged in the abandoned hospital building itself, providing a unique and immersive experience for the audience. The creative team behind the production includes prominent figures such as Priit Põldma and Maarja Moor, who are dedicated to capturing the essence of the hospital's rich history.

The Viljandi hospital operated in a nine-story building in the Jämejala village for 40 years, significantly impacting the lives of many individuals, including medical staff, patients, and visitors. Heigo Teder, the director of Ugala Theater, emphasized the importance of the memories that have been created within the walls of this building over the decades. He expressed a desire to uncover joyful, sad, and unexpected moments that have unfolded in this location, reflecting the multitude of experiences associated with the hospital.

By collecting these narratives, Ugala Theater hopes to connect with the community and offer a performance that resonates with the audience on a personal level. As the production approaches its summer debut, there is a growing anticipation among locals to see how their shared memories will be woven into the fabric of the play, ultimately honoring the legacy of the old hospital and the myriad of stories it holds.