In a recent interview on the program "Kultūrdeva," renowned director Ādolfs Šapiro shared his reflections on his time at the Youth Theatre in Riga and what returning to the city means to him. After being away for over three decades, during which he only spoke Latvian occasionally with fellow expatriates across the globe, he expressed a deep sense of connection to his past yet felt the weight of nostalgia. He candidly mentioned that the memories made it challenging to fully engage with the creative environment of the theatre.

Shapiro emphasized the special memories associated with the Youth Theatre, which contributed significantly to his identity as a director. He highlighted the efforts of his former student, Juris Žagars, who leads the Dailes Theatre, regarding the initiatives to involve him in new productions. This rekindling of relationships and opportunities in the local theatre scene has sparked a renewed desire for Shapiro to explore his artistic expressions in Riga again.

The director's journey underscores the importance of cultural ties and how they influence an artist's work. As he navigates through feelings of nostalgia and excitement, Shapiro’s insights reveal the personal dimensions of life as a director and the significant impact that community ties have on creativity—a reminder of how local places and connections remain integral to an artist's identity.