Saulius Sipaitis, a veteran actor at the Youth Theatre, maintains that a professional’s value lies in consistent work rather than the prestige of a specific genre. Having celebrated his 86th birthday on June 18, Sipaitis continues to perform alongside young colleagues in productions like the 2025 premiere “Keliaujantys,” while also sustaining a long-term career in television and voice-over work.
Why do veteran actors choose television serials?
While many established actors view television serials as inferior to theater or cinema, Sipaitis rejects this hierarchy. According to the actor, his participation in popular Lithuanian series such as “Anastasija,” “Nekviesta meilė,” “Namai, kur širdis,” and “Gyvenimo receptai” is driven by a lack of pretension and a desire to remain active. He notes that these projects provide opportunities to collaborate with colleagues and maintain professional momentum, regardless of the perceived quality of the production.
Sipaitis has found a unique professional bridge between his voice-over work and linguistics. While dubbing Indian serials, he identified similarities between Sanskrit and the Lithuanian language, both of which belong to the Indo-European family.
How did family history shape the actor’s career?
Sipaitis was born into a prominent theatrical family, though his path to the stage was not immediate. His father, Vladas Fedotas Sipavičius (1904–1992), and mother, Jadvyga Ramanauskaitė (2013), were both actors. His grandmother, Liudvika Sipavičiūtė (1879–1966), was a mecosoprano who performed with Feodor Chaliapin. Despite this lineage, Sipaitis initially aspired to be an archaeologist. Following his father’s advice, he entered the Juozas Gruodis Conservatory in Kaunas to study directing, eventually transitioning to acting after meeting Antanas Šurna, with whom he studied at the Lithuanian State Conservatory.
What is the story behind the Sipaitis family name?
The transition from the surname Sipavičius to Sipaitis occurred after the family’s return from exile, as part of a post-war effort to Lithuanianize names. The family history is marked by significant upheaval; Vladas Fedotas Sipavičius was a child of Liudvika Sipavičiūtė born out of wedlock. Vladas was raised by an engineer named Fedotas, who married Liudvika and adopted him. Saulius Sipaitis emphasizes his gratitude toward this man for keeping the family line intact. The family’s history also includes the tragic circumstances surrounding his grandmother, Liudvika, whose later years were spent in a nursing home in the outskirts of Vilnius after she fell out of favor with Soviet authorities due to her international career, which included performances at the Metropolitan Opera in New York.
Frequently Asked Questions
Did Saulius Sipaitis always want to be an actor?
No. As a young man, he was deeply interested in history and intended to pursue a career in archaeology before failing to meet the entrance requirements for the university program.
Who was the most famous member of his family?
His grandmother, Liudvika Sipavičiūtė, was an opera singer who performed alongside international stars like Feodor Chaliapin.
Is the actor still working with younger generations?
Yes. Sipaitis remains a staff member at the Youth Theatre and continues to perform in contemporary productions, including the 2025 premiere “Keliaujantys,” where he contributed both as a musician and actor.
How many times has Saulius Sipaitis been married?
He has been married twice. His first wife was actress Nijolė Gelžinytė (1938–2018), with whom he had a daughter, Ieva. He is currently married to Irena, who is fourteen years his junior.
Have thoughts on the evolution of Lithuanian theater or the changing roles of veteran actors? Share your perspective in the comments below or subscribe to our newsletter for more deep dives into the lives of cultural icons.