According to the official announcement by Latvijas Nacionālais teātris, the upcoming stage production “Principiāla nostāja” (“Principled Stance”) will premiere on September 22 in the New Hall, exploring the tumultuous transition period of restored Latvian independence through the high-profile criminal case of Soviet-era politician Alfrēds Rubiks and investigator Rita Aksenoka.
The Historical Backdrop of Latvia’s Independence Transition
Opening on September 22, according to the theater’s production schedule, the play moves the narrative of the ongoing justice trilogy twenty years forward from the 1970s setting of the first installment, “Ko var cilvēks.” According to the official theater synopsis, the production captures a complex era defined by more than just public unity. The script highlights concrete historical conflicts, including racketeering, monument bombings, and the OMON raid on the prosecutor’s office, which was championed by Alfrēds Rubiks, described in the materials as Latvia’s leading communist.
Clash of Principles: Aksenoka Versus Rubiks
According to the production details provided by the theater, the core of the second part centers on a direct ideological collision between Rubiks’ unwavering belief in his political position and Aksenoka’s strict adherence to law and justice. Writer Jānis Joņevs explains in the promotional materials that the original dramaturgy relies as closely as possible on the actual words of the historical figures found in public statements, interrogation protocols, memoirs, and private conversations. Marija Bērziņa portrays Rita Aksenoka, while Uldis Anže takes on the role of Alfrēds Rubiks, alongside cast members Ainārs Ančevskis and Romāns Bargais.
Did you know? According to the creative team, the trilogy’s first part focused on a real 1970s criminal case involving more than 300 crimes, drawing an approving audience response from the real-life Rita Aksenoka herself during its run in the Actor’s Hall.
Production Team and Performance Schedule
According to the theater’s announcements, the artistic vision is driven by director Roberts Dauburs and author Jānis Joņevs, aiming to elevate the drama, scenography, sound, and lighting beyond the standards of the first trilogy chapter. The creative team also includes scenographer and costume designer Kristians Brekte, musical designer Tomass Ančs, lighting designer Lienīte Slišāne, and video artist Toms Zeļģis. Following the September 22 premiere, upcoming performances are scheduled for September 25 and 30, as well as October 4, 14, and 28, with tickets available via Biļešu paradīze.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the premiere of “Principiāla nostāja”?
According to Latvijas Nacionālais teātris, the premiere takes place on September 22 in the theater’s New Hall.
Who are the main historical figures depicted in the play?
According to the official synopsis, the play centers on high-profile investigator Rita Aksenoka and Soviet-era politician Alfrēds Rubiks.
Who wrote and directed the production?
According to the theater’s credits, the production is directed by Roberts Dauburs with original dramaturgy by Jānis Joņevs.
Keep reading