Liepāja Puppet Theatre Brings Beloved Hedgehog Puksītis to the Stage
Liepāja Puppet Theatre is preparing a special production for families this spring: “Puksītis and the Night Moth Vilis.” The play, based on stories created by Rasa Bugavičute-Pēce and Sands Pēčs, promises a heartwarming nighttime adventure with a unique visual style for Latvian puppet theatre, as reported by Ieva Jansone, Head of Advertising and Public Relations.
A Long-Awaited Debut for Puksītis
Rasa Bugavičute-Pēce, the play’s dramatist, expressed her delight at seeing the characters come to life on stage. “Little Hedgehog Puksītis, who was born on the radio, wouldn’t let me sleep at night. He really wanted to be on stage. And now it has happened! I am truly happy to see that Puksītis and the night moth Vilis continue their journey and meet new friends – this time in the puppet theatre.”
Bugavičute-Pēce emphasized the enduring appeal of the characters, stating, “Puksītis and his friends are created to live in motion and in heartfelt relationships with children – both in books and radio stories, and in children’s imaginations. The puppet theatre gives these characters a completely new breath, preserving the special warmth and playfulness that we have put into the storybooks.”
Innovative Stage Design and Musical Score
Director and Artistic Director of Liepāja Puppet Theatre, Edgars Niklasons, collaborated with artist Liene Vilmane – also the illustrator of the Puksītis books – to create a stage environment that vividly brings the book’s pages to life. Niklasons described the production as “2D animation, creating an experience similar to an animated film,” noting that Liepāja Puppet Theatre audiences will encounter this form for the first time.
The production features a cast including Aleksandrs Jonovs, Denisa Egle, Liene Gāliņa, and Pēteris Lapiņš. The story follows Puksītis as he embarks on a rescue mission to identify Vilis’s lost parents, set against the backdrop of Melleņu ieplaka. The play explores themes of courage, friendship, and the power of imagination.
The soundscape for the production is a collaboration between composers Kaspars Niklasons and Gints Smukais, the latter receiving the “GAMMA 2026” award. The music is described as warm and atmospheric, closely following the puppet animation and immersing the audience in the events of Melleņu ieplaka.
Performance Details and Ticketing
The play is designed for audiences aged three and up. Performances are scheduled for April 30th (with a pre-premiere meet-and-greet with the creators), May 2nd, 3rd, 9th, 17th, 20th and 26th. Tickets are available for purchase at “Biļešu Paradīze” ticket offices and online at www.bilesuparadize.lv, as well as one hour before the show at the Liepāja Puppet Theatre box office. Ticket prices are 12 EUR, with discounts available for holders of the “Goda ģimene/ 3+” card and individuals with disabilities (10 EUR).
Creative Team
- Director: Edgars Niklasons
- Dramaturgy: Rasa Bugavičute-Pēce
- Scenography: Liene Vilmane and Edgars Niklasons
- Movement: Alise Putniņa
- Cast: Aleksandrs Jonovs, Denisa Egle, Liene Gāliņa, Pēteris Lapiņš
- Lighting Design: Jānis Brašs, Sound Design: Kristaps Žilinskis
Did you know?
Liene Vilmane, the scenographer, is also the original illustrator of the Puksītis books, ensuring a visually consistent and faithful adaptation for the stage.
FAQ
Q: What age is the play suitable for?
A: The play is recommended for children aged three and up.
Q: Where can I purchase tickets?
A: Tickets are available at “Biļešu Paradīze” and online at www.bilesuparadize.lv.
Q: What are the themes explored in the play?
A: The play explores themes of courage, friendship, and the power of imagination.
Ready to embark on a magical journey with Puksītis and Vilis? Obtain your tickets today!
