Feb 16 • 12:25 UTC 🇱🇻 Latvia LSM

Director Ādolfs Šapiro: When I worked at the Youth Theater, I didn't know it was so good

Latvian director Ādolfs Šapiro discusses his reflections on working at the Youth Theater and his return to Rīga after many years abroad.

In a recent interview on the program 'Kultūrdeva', renowned Latvian director Ādolfs Šapiro shared his experiences about the Youth Theater in Rīga and his creative journey around the world. After many years of living abroad, he reflects fondly on his time at the theater, expressing surprise at how valuable that experience was, especially given the distance he felt from it in recent years. He emphasized that being away made his return emotionally complex, as the memories of the past weighed on him.

Shapiro noted the excitement of witnessing the first performances of 'Don Quixote' at the New Rīga Theater and acknowledged that he feels a sense of coming home. Although he admits to struggling with the Latvian language after decades away, his passion for theater remains unwavering. He expressed gratitude towards his former student, Juris Žagars, who now directs the Dailes Theater and actively encourages him to return to directing in Rīga.

The candid conversation highlights the intricate ties between artists and their roots, and Shapiro's desire to contribute to the Latvian theater scene again. His reflections serve as a reminder of the importance of cultural exchanges and the enduring influence of home on creative expression, particularly for those who have spent significant time abroad. Shapiro's return signifies not just a personal homecoming but potentially the rekindling of a significant artistic collaboration in Rīga's vibrant theater community.

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