Montenegrin National Theatre Launches Season with Provocative Premiere

The 72nd season of the Montenegrin National Theatre kicked off on September 28, 2023, with the premiere of “Tonight We Improvise,” directed by renowned European director Paolo Mađeli. This performance marks the world premiere of Luigi Pirandello‘s work in Montenegro, offering audiences a complex exploration of family dysfunction and the rebellious spirit of actors against their director.

“Tonight We Improvise” delves into the provocative themes surrounding the nature of theatre and the blurred lines between reality and fiction. The performance is a reflection on identity and the pursuit of truth in contemporary society, echoing William Shakespeare‘s sentiment that “the whole world is a stage.” Through this lens, Mađeli challenges audiences to confront various societal and familial anomalies that permeate modern life.

Artistic Insights from the Cast

Lead actress Ana Vujošević described the production as a “true deconstruction of the functioning of theatre,” emphasizing its relevance to the provincial context of Montenegro. She expressed hope that the audience would resonate with the portrayal of anger and disappointment prevalent in today’s society. “If we managed to convey that frustration and the struggle we face, then it is truly a success,” she said.

Vujošević touched on a broader theme of societal decline, stating, “People today are becoming cannibals—evil, always angry, and lacking empathy. This is a sadness and a downfall of civilization.” Her remarks underscore the urgency of the themes presented in the play, inviting reflection on the human condition.

Actor Miloš Pejović praised Mađeli’s interpretation of Pirandello, asserting that it closely aligns with the playwright’s intentions. He described his role as challenging, noting the need for a nuanced understanding of the character’s complexities. “We had to navigate layers upon layers of performance, which may seem simple at first glance,” he explained.

Directorial Vision and Praise for Young Actors

Following the premiere, Mađeli spoke highly of Pirandello, citing him as one of the greatest writers of the past 200 years and a pioneer of modern theatre. He emphasized the importance of following the playwright’s indications to uncover deeper meaning within the text. “You must find the treasure within,” Mađeli remarked, highlighting the intellectual depth of the work.

Actor Simo Trebješanin, who portrays the director in the play, expressed pride in the production’s artistic quality. He noted that collaborating with Mađeli set a high standard for craftsmanship and creativity. “We have created a good and representative performance,” he stated, emphasizing the rare opportunity for actors in Montenegro to work with such a distinguished director.

Mađeli commended the talent of young Montenegrin actors, asserting that the country boasts a strong acting school. “It has been fantastic to work with these actors—some of whom I did not know before. You have a good acting school in Montenegro, unlike many other countries,” he stated, contrasting it with his experiences in Croatia.

The adaptation and dramaturgy are credited to Željka Udovičić-Pleština, with costume design by Lina Leković, and set design and video by Ivan Marušić Klif. The lighting design was a collaborative effort between Mađeli and Sreten Milošević, while music was composed by Damir Martinović Mrle and Ivanka Mazurkijević. The production team also includes assistant director Nataša Milićević, rehearsal pianist Marija Mitrović, and dramaturgy assistant Maša Mirković.

The play will have a repeat performance tonight at 20:00 on the Grand Stage, inviting more audiences to experience this thought-provoking theatrical journey.