According to Ieva Jansone, advertising and public relations manager, Liepāja Puppet Theatre is preparing for the upcoming premiere of “Čalotāji” (The Chatterers), a sensory production tailored specifically for toddlers aged one to three years. The performances are scheduled for September 19 at 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM at the theatre located at Rožu laukums 5/6 in Liepāja, with financial support provided by the Liepāja municipality.
Inside the Sensory World of “Čalotāji” at Liepāja Puppet Theatre
Running for thirty-five minutes, the production is designed as an infant’s journey through sound, color, and movement. According to theatre representatives, the theatrical experience begins long before the child can utter words. The staging focuses closely on a young child’s natural way of exploring the world—through sight, hearing, touch, movement, rhythm, and repetition. Rather than following a traditional narrative that requires intellectual understanding, the production treats the stage as an immersive environment that babies can listen to, watch, and feel. Children participate directly by observing, responding, and moving alongside the performers.
Creative Team and Innovative Instruments
The concept, dramaturgy, and direction of “Čalotāji” are created by Sandija Santa, who previously collaborated with the theatre on “Ilgonis un (Vis)visums” (Ilgonis and the Universe). Scenography and costumes are designed by Marta Madara Grantiņa, while the original music is composed by Jēkabs Nīmanis. Movement direction is shaped by Ramona Levane, with actors Ilze Ročāne and Pēteris Lapiņš performing on stage as two researchers named Lili and Arvo.
Did you know? Composer Jēkabs Nīmanis incorporates the theremin—an ethereal, early electronic instrument—into the performance. Actors produce unusual pitch variations with minimal hand movements, engaging the young audience’s curiosity.
The production’s creative team brings extensive cross-disciplinary experience to the infant-focused format. Santa’s background includes contemporary children’s works such as “Cauruļzobis Vienīgais” and “Spokuskopija” at Rēzekne Theatre “Joriks”, alongside “Jatakas” at the Drawing Theatre. Grantiņa’s visual design work spans painting, performance art, and staging for various Latvian venues, including “Vientuļākā aita pasaulē” at Liepāja Theatre. Nīmanis has scored over 100 theatrical works, including the animation cycle “Lupatiņi”, earning multiple Spēlmaņu Nakts awards. Levane contributes contemporary dance expertise drawn from projects with Dailes Theatre, the Latvian National Theatre, and Ģertrūdes Ielas Teātris.
Ticketing and Practical Information
Tickets for the September 19 performances are available at “Biļešu Paradīze” box offices across Latvia, online at www.bilesuparadize.lv, and directly at the Liepāja Puppet Theatre box office. Creators emphasize that the production allows children to dictate their own attention rhythm, fostering curiosity at a slow and careful pace.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the recommended age for “Čalotāji”?
The production is specifically designed for toddlers between one and three years of age.
How long is the performance?
According to the theatre, the running time is thirty-five minutes.
Where can I purchase tickets?
Tickets are sold at Liepāja Puppet Theatre’s box office and via “Biļešu Paradīze” physical and online ticket outlets.
Who are the creators behind the production?
The work is directed and written by Sandija Santa, with scenography by Marta Madara Grantiņa, music by Jēkabs Nīmanis, and movement by Ramona Levane.
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