The Tammsaare and Vilde Friends Society awarded the title of Classic Friend to Maria Mägi, Steven-Hristo Evestus, and Eerik Kergandberg during a commemorative event for the 160th anniversary of the renowned Estonian author Eduard Vilde. The event, which took place at the Tallinna Literary Center, featured a unique theatrical performance modeled as a literary trial based on characters from Vilde’s work, "Mäeküla piimamees." This format is a revival of the popular literary courts that were common in pre-World War II Estonia and had not been staged in the same manner since Estonia regained independence.

Tammsaare and Vilde Friends Society member Toomas Haug expressed joy at the enthusiastic participation of the honored lawyers in the performance. Their involvement not only paid tribute to Vilde’s literary legacy but also expanded the boundaries of how literature can be interpreted and performed in modern contexts. The event attracted a significant audience, reminiscent of the thriving cultural scene of Estonia in earlier times, marking a celebration of literature interwoven with legal examination, thus providing a fresh and engaging approach to appreciating classic Estonian literature.

This event underscores the continuing relevance of Vilde's themes and the innovative ways in which contemporary society can engage with historical literary figures. It reflects a cultural revival in Estonia, where literature is celebrated not just in academia but also in engaging public events that bridge past and present. The success of this performance may pave the way for future literary events that blend different disciplines and art forms, reinforcing the importance of literary heritage in national identity and education.