Rabbit Will Rule at Liepāja Puppet Theater — Locals Ask Where Was Such a Leader During Occupation

This week, Liepāja Puppet Theater will premiere a show where the main antagonist is a Rabbit. Yes, you understood correctly — not a bear, not a wolf, but a gentle little bunny. Director Madara Enkuzena explains that the essence of the show is best characterized by the phrase: 'But you can't do that, nobody does it that way?!' The Liepāja residents' response would be: 'What, do they do it differently in Riga?'

The central character — Book Worm — questions the existing order, which, as Karosta resident Marija says, 'finally someone who says what we all think about the government.' The show's visual language creates an illusion of something nice and innocent, but actually reveals a completely different reality. Just like Lake Liepāja — calm and peaceful on the surface, but hiding secrets in the depths that sea storms will never reveal.

Director Enkuzena admits she had to step out of her comfort zone and combine acting work with directing duties. 'The process brought me many revelations and challenges,' she says. Local theater visitor Jānis comments: 'Well, finally someone understood that in Liepāja one person can do the work of several people — we've been practicing this for years!'

Actress Ilze Ročāne reveals that during the rehearsal process, everyone struggled with their ingrained preconceptions about 'how to do' and 'how not to do.' This is a particularly relevant issue in Liepāja, where traditionally everything is done differently than in Riga — and usually better. The show is created as a classic puppet show with screens and rod puppets, but with elements that surprise. Just like our city — seemingly traditional, but always with something unexpected.