“Cyrano” Captivates Audience at Niksic Theatre Festival

The International Actor Festival in Niksic, Montenegro, showcased a compelling rendition of “Cyrano” on October 20, 2023. The play, presented by the Croatian National Theatre from Varazdin, was directed by Vito Taufer and received enthusiastic applause from the audience.

Following the performance, Vesna Đikanović, the director of the theatre in Varazdin, reflected on Taufer’s artistic vision. She noted that his works consistently engage with political themes and resonate deeply with audiences. “He has always created communicative and lively pieces that establish a relationship with the audience,” she explained. “This play is not merely a romantic story; it addresses the struggles of individuals crushed by societal systems and questions the essence of art today, given the tumultuous events surrounding us.”

Art Amidst Conflict

Đikanović emphasized that the narrative delves into profound inquiries about emotion and language in theatre. “We continually find ourselves surrounded by wars and politics, leading to a sense of oppression. The conclusion of the story is not entirely tragic; instead, it prompts us to consider what culture and freedom mean, both personally and collectively,” she stated. She praised the play as a significant text that endures over time, noting its directness and relevance to contemporary theatre.

Actor Pavle Matuško, who has performed the role multiple times, expressed his growing appreciation for the material. “As time goes on, it becomes increasingly enjoyable to portray this character. Although the play was recently staged, we have already developed a strong chemistry as a cast,” he remarked.

A Collaborative Effort

The production featured a remarkable fusion of music, lighting, and performance, all of which contributed to its success. A roundtable discussion after the performance highlighted the teamwork behind the project. The costumes and set design were notably impressive, and the creators avoided excessive sentimentality, focusing instead on authenticity.

The adaptation was co-created by Đikanović and Taufer, with dramaturgy credited to Đikanović. The set was designed by Urša Vidic, while the costumes were crafted by Alan Hranitelj. Music was composed by Damir Martinović Mrle and Ivanka Mazurkijević, and Vesna Kolarec designed the lighting. Notable contributions also included sculptures by Ivan Duić and fight choreography by Lovro Buva. The assistant costume designer was Žarka Krpan, and photography was handled by Marko Ercegović.

The talented cast featured performers such as Karlo Mrkša, Helena Minić-Matanić, Marinko Leš, and others, who brought vibrancy and depth to the production. As the festival continues to unfold, “Cyrano” stands out as a testament to the enduring power of theatre to provoke thought and foster dialogue.