Jēkabpils People's Theatre - Andruss Kivirehk's Tragicomedy “Estonian Funerals”

The play is a tragedy-comedy full of humor and absurdity, highlighting the paradoxes of Estonian culture and traditions. But the events that take place in the performance resonate so strongly with us as well.

The action takes place in a small Estonian village. An old man has died in the countryside. All possible relatives are invited to the funeral, including some guests the funeral organizers do not know. It turns out that everyone has their own story about values and the meaning of life, and about the differences in how generations view what is happening. In addition, Andres's parents finally learn about their son's marriage. But above all, amidst the everyday problems, the question of the grandfather's land comes up. Does anyone even need it anymore? Does Andres, the grandson who does not at all long for this wonderful opportunity, need it? Andres's parents have spent all their holidays and summer vacations working themselves to the bone. Do the gifts of the land mean only a cellar full of jars of jam and preserves that nobody needs, when it is so much more convenient to buy them in the store?

The performance skillfully combines a harsh assessment of tradition with a look at everyday problems, where each character carries some inner trauma. In an ingenious way, Kivirehk portrays the characteristic composure and peculiarity of Estonians, while also emphasizing the human qualities and weaknesses that are ours too - Latvians'.

"Estonian Funerals" is both an entertaining and deeply moving production that reminds us of the healing power of humor even in the most serious moments of life.

Director of the production - Inta Ūbele.

Set designer - Ivars Noviks.

Musical design - Aigars Godiņš.

Lighting - Ilmārs Mārāns.

Stage manager - Silva Gavare.

Cast: Inita Zarkeviča, Uldis Urtāns, Aija Klāne, Reinis Širokovs, Maija Veide, Jānis Saliņš, Dace Kamišova, Kārlis Ozols, Aivars Eglītis.

Running time: 1 h 30 min.