Liepājas Leļļu teātris is staging “Čalotāji,” a 35-minute sensory production created for toddlers aged one to three years old, according to the theater’s official announcements. Set for its premiere on September 19 at 11:00 and 13:00 at Rožu laukums 5/6, the performance offers an immersive journey into sound, color, and movement designed specifically for children before they develop verbal expression.
Creative Team and Production Roles
The production brings together several established Latvian theater and arts professionals. According to the official theater materials, the idea, dramaturgy, and direction come from Sandija Santa. Scenography and costumes are designed by Marta Madara Grantiņa, original music is composed by Jēkabs Nīmanis, and movement language is shaped by choreographer Ramona Levane. On stage, Liepājas Leļļu teātris actors Ilze Ročāne and Pēteris Lapiņš bring the performance to life.
Exploring Sound, Color, and Movement
According to the production background, the narrative centers on two researchers named Lili and Arvo. The pair enters the space to discover sounds, colors, and forms alongside the young audience. Rather than telling a traditional story, the production uses color as a dynamic stage element and sound as a primary dramaturgical tool. Nīmanis incorporates the theremin—an ethereal, historic electronic instrument—allowing actors to create pitch variations through hand movements that capture toddler interest.
Creative Background of the Team
Santa has previously focused on sound exploration in works such as “Ilgonis un (Vis)visums” at Liepājas Leļļu teātris, “Jatakas” at Zīmējumu teātris, and “SMARAGDA PILS@TA. ENTER” at Liepāja Theatre, alongside collaborations with director Edgars Niklasons at Rēzekne Theater “Joriks.” Grantiņa brings experience across painting, performance, and theater design, with work including Mikhail Chekhov Riga Russian Theatre. Nīmanis has composed music for over 100 theater productions and is well-known to young audiences as the composer for the animation cycle “Lupatiņi.” Levane contributes movement experience from projects with Ģertrūdes ielas teātris, Dailes teātris, and the Latvian National Theatre.
Did You Know?
“Čalotāji” runs for 35 minutes to match the natural attention span of toddlers, allowing children to set their own rhythm of engagement without needing to understand a spoken plot, as noted by the creators.
Frequently Asked Questions
When and where is the premiere of “Čalotāji”?
The premiere takes place on September 19 at 11:00 and 13:00 at Liepājas Leļļu teātris, located at Rožu laukums 5/6, Liepāja.
What age group is the performance for?
According to the theater, the production is specifically designed for toddlers from one to three years old.
Where can tickets be purchased?
Tickets are available at Biļešu Paradīze box offices across Latvia, online at www.bilesuparadize.lv, and at the Liepājas Leļļu teātris box office.
Ticket Information and Support
Financial support for the production is provided by the Liepāja municipality. Tickets can be purchased through Biļešu Paradīze sales points and the Liepājas Leļļu teātris box office.
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