Director Matīss Kaža on the play 'The Valley of Wonder': This is not an entertainment piece
Matīss Kaža, a prominent Latvian director, discusses his latest play 'The Valley of Wonder,' which blends research on the human brain with Sufi mythology and Persian literature.
Matīss Kaža has been a prolific figure in Latvian theater and film since returning from film studies in the United States. He has directed various films, produced others, received accolades including Oscars, and taught at the Latvian Academy of Culture. His latest production, 'The Valley of Wonder,' recently premiered at the New Riga Theatre and showcases a complex narrative intertwining brain research, memory studies, and Sufi mythology, particularly drawing from Farid al-Din Attar's 'Conference of the Birds.' This intellectual and poetical work encourages viewers to delve into a dreamlike state while simultaneously maintaining acute awareness.
Kaža's experience in directing plays at prestigious venues, including the Latvian National Theatre and Dailes Theatre, marks this production as significant, given that it represents his debut at the New Riga Theatre. He has carefully selected three exceptional actors for this performance, aligning with the unique thematic elements of the play. Audience members who have witnessed the show in New York have reported deep impressions, indicating that the narrative's complexity and the actors' performances resonate strongly with viewers, transcending the boundaries of cultural and linguistic understanding.
The play's ambition lies not only in its storytelling but also in its ability to provoke thought and introspection about the nature of consciousness and humanity’s quest for meaning, reflecting Kaža's intent that this work is not merely entertainment but a profound exploration of inner worlds and mystical themes. As this production gains recognition, it positions Kaža as a central figure in the evolving landscape of contemporary Latvian theater, inviting further discourse on the intersections of art, philosophy, and psychology.