Jēkabsone un Skuja Liepājas teātra labākie
Liepāja Theatre audiences have named Agnese Jēkabsone and Valts Skuja the top actors of the 119th season, according to literary advisor Zanda Borga. The results, announced June 7 following the performance of Freimanis, reflect a long-standing tradition dating back to 2008 where viewers select their favorite performers and productions to mark the end of the theatrical year.
The tradition of Liepāja Theatre audiences voting for their favorite actors and productions has been a staple of the season’s conclusion since 2008.
Award-winning performances and top-rated plays
Agnese Jēkabsone received the honor for her role as Liene Raudupiete in Trīs bēres un divas kāzas, while Valts Skuja was recognized for his titular performance in Freimanis. Supporting actor awards were granted to Agnija Dreimane and Rolands Beķeris for their contributions across multiple productions, including Freimanis and Trīs bēres un divas kāzas.
The play Freimanis, directed by Mārtiņa Kalita, emerged as the most successful production of the 119th season according to the audience vote. Two productions by artistic director Valters Sīlis, Dzīvoklis and Parasta pirmdiena, secured the second and third positions in the rankings.
Samantha Carter notes that audience-choice awards serve as a vital metric for regional theaters, bridging the gap between professional critical acclaim and the actual impact of performances on the local community. By involving sponsors like “Liepājas papīrs,” the theater effectively creates a public forum that reinforces the cultural significance of the company’s work within the city.
Upcoming schedule and 120th anniversary season
The theatre is set to transition into its 120th anniversary season on September 5 with the production Kas var būt labāks par šo?, which will be eligible for next year’s audience vote. Before the new season begins, the company will host the second international Teātris tuvplānā festival from August 20 to August 23, featuring works from Lithuania, Estonia, Finland, and Sweden.
Following a brief summer break, the company will perform in Riga at the Dailes Theatre. Tickets for the August 5 and 6 performances of Latviešu raķetes and the August 7 showing of Dzīvoklis are already sold out. Professional evaluations for the season are expected later in June when the Spēlmaņu nakts jury announces its official nominations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who were the top actors for the 119th season?
According to Zanda Borga, audiences voted Agnese Jēkabsone as the best actress and Valts Skuja as the best actor.
What was the most successful play of the season?
The audience selected the play Freimanis, directed by Mārtiņa Kalita, as the season’s most successful production.
When does the 120th anniversary season begin?
The 120th season is scheduled to open on September 5 with the production Kas var būt labāks par šo?.
What impact do you think audience-led awards have on the creative direction of regional theater companies?