This year, Latvian actress Ilze Vazdika will receive the prestigious “Players’ Night” award for her lifetime contribution to theater art. In honor of this event, she took part in the Latvian Radio talk show “Crossroads of the Ages”.
The 81-year-old actress was born in Riga, and her brother Uldis Vazdiks (1941–2006) was also an actor. She studied at the 3rd secondary school in Riga, but in 1959 she entered the third studio of the Art Theater, graduating in 1962. Vazdika started working at the Art Theater in 1960.
During her career, she has also received several other important awards – in 2010 she was awarded the Order of the Three Stars, and in 2007 the “Gamers’ Night” award as the “Best Supporting Actress of the Year”.
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The open interview
In the program, Vazdika remembered her childhood, which she spent largely in the theater, because her mother was also an actress.
Even then, she was sure that she would become an actress, but in her youth she also considered radio work. Therefore, when she arrived at the recording location of the program “Laikmeta kruspunktė” at the Latvian Radio House in Old Riga, she was obviously happy and inspired.
Although Vazdika no longer works in the theater in recent years, she has a clear opinion about what, in her view, is unacceptable in the theater world.
Theater has changed a lot today. Although it is still called a repertory theater, it is doubtful whether it will remain so in the future. However, the most opinionated and complicated feelings are about the “castings” and the arrival of guest directors.
Of course, the theater has completely changed. He is still considered a repertory theater, but I think that he will hardly be a repertory theater in the future. Not to mention the fact that guest directors are constantly coming, Žagar wants it, strangers are coming…
And it’s all so unacceptable for me – all those “castings”, all that… I completely closed myself off to some kind of “casting”.
What is “casting”? What else does he want from me? I have been walking on those boards all my life, “casting” even now… And a stranger. I have such stupid thoughts – he enters my house and I will now go to the “casting”. I’m not going anywhere. Well, then I didn’t go anywhere and left. That’s how it went for me…
In any case, I have to thank Žagar – all respect! What he has done for the theater, how he has transformed it and what other plans he has for the future. Then the theater is lucky to have such a Žagar. And he wants to continue. And may God give him the opportunity to continue. Because I can only say the best.
The “Gamer’s Night” award ceremony will be held on November 23 at the Valmiera Theater and will be shown on Latvian Television channel 1.
Here is the recording of the program and the interview:
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Ilze Vazdika: A Lifetime in the Theatre
Hold onto your hats, theatre lovers, as this year, the spotlight is on Ilze Vazdika, a titan of Latvian stagecraft, who is set to receive the prestigious “Players’ Night” award for her lifetime contribution to theatre art. And to add a cherry on top of this theatrical sundae, she recently graced the airwaves on Latvian Radio’s talk show “Crossroads of the Ages.” But don’t worry; there’s no need for a fancy dress code—just bring your popcorn!
Now, let’s talk about the woman of the hour. At 81 years young, our star hails from none other than the picturesque city of Riga. Her brother, the late Uldis Vazdiks, also took center stage in the acting world. It seems acting runs in the family—like a Shakespearean bloodline without the tragic endings! Ilze kicked off her academic journey at the 3rd secondary school in Riga but, by 1959, was drumming her fingers at the third studio of the Art Theater, graduating in 1962. Talk about fast tracking your way to greatness! She stepped onto the stage officially in 1960, and the rest, as they say, is theatrical history.
Her wall of awards is as impressive as her performances; in 2010, she was awarded the Order of the Three Stars—sounds fancy, doesn’t it? And in 2007, she bagged the “Gamers’ Night” award, recognizing her as the “Best Supporting Actress of the Year.” Clearly, her trophy shelf could use a support group of its own!
The Open Interview: Reflections and Revelations
In her recent gig on the radio, Vazdika took a stroll down memory lane, recalling her theatre-centric childhood—much like a fun-filled romp through a brilliant melodrama, minus the tragic ending (we hope!). With a mother who was also an actress, it’s safe to say she was destined to bask in the limelight. She reflected, with all the warmth of a nostalgia-fueled monologue, on how she envisioned her future as an actress, though she briefly pondered a career in radio. And can you imagine it? Ilze Vazdika on the airwaves discussing everything from theatre to the latest gossip about stage doors? That would have been a script worth writing!
But alas, not everything stays the same on the theatre front. Our beloved Ilze didn’t hold any punches when it came to sharing her views on the industry’s evolution. She voiced her concerns about the ‘castings’ and the influx of guest directors shaking up the traditional repertory theatre model. ‘What on earth is this “casting” nonsense?’ she seemed to say, raising an eyebrow in disbelief! I mean, casting was for fish, right?
“Of course, the theatre has completely changed. He is still considered a repertory theatre, but I think that he will hardly be a repertory theatre in the future.”
If only her thoughts on these ‘strangers’ entering her world of boards could be translated into a sitcom! Just imagine her, sitting in the comfort of her home as ‘guest directors’ waltz in like they own the place. “Excuse me, good sir, this is my house! If you want a casting, you better come bearing chocolate,” she might quip. If there’s one thing we take away from her, it’s that theatre ought to be a wee bit more like a family gathering—less of the awkwardness, more of the warmth, please!
Yet behind her critiques lies a softness towards those who continue the theatre’s legacy, especially the likes of the venerable Žagar, whose contributions have been nothing short of transformational. “May God give him the opportunity to continue!” she cried, probably sending a hearty blessing his way from her cozy corner of the theatre world.
And mark your calendars, folks! The “Gamer’s Night” award ceremony is scheduled for November 23 at the Valmiera Theater, and you can catch all the action on Latvian Television channel 1. After all, who wouldn’t want to tune in to see legend get celebrated?
So, gear up for a night filled with drama, laughter, and possibly an existential crisis as we raise a toast to Ilze Vazdika—a true gem in the realm of theatre!
For those clamoring for more, don’t forget to check out the recording of the program and the full interview. You won’t regret it—unless you do, in which case, don’t blame us; we’re just the messengers!
In a remarkable tribute to her illustrious career, Latvian actress Ilze Vazdika will be honored with the prestigious “Players’ Night” award for her lifetime achievements in theater arts. To commemorate this significant milestone, she engaged in a candid conversation on the Latvian Radio talk show “Crossroads of the Ages”.
This celebrated 81-year-old actress hails from the vibrant city of Riga, where she was born into a family intertwined with the performing arts; her brother, Uldis Vazdiks (1941–2006), also dedicated his life to acting. Vazdika’s educational journey began at the 3rd secondary school in Riga, and in 1959, she took a pivotal step into the world of theater by entering the third studio of the esteemed Art Theater, ultimately graduating in 1962. Her professional journey commenced at the Art Theater in 1960, where she left an indelible mark.
Throughout her extensive career, Vazdika’s talent has been recognized through numerous accolades; notably, in 2010, she was bestowed with the distinguished Order of the Three Stars. Additionally, in 2007, she received the “Gamers’ Night” award as the “Best Supporting Actress of the Year”, solidifying her reputation as an exceptional performer.
The open interview
During the program, Vazdika fondly reminisced about her formative years spent within the theater environment, influenced significantly by her mother, who was also an actress.
Even as a child, she had a strong conviction that her path would lead her to become an actress, although in her youth, she briefly entertained the idea of pursuing a career in radio. Arriving at the recording location of the program “Laikmeta kruspunktė” at the Latvian Radio House in Old Riga, Vazdika radiated joy and inspiration, clearly relishing the opportunity to reflect on her life and career.
Although she may no longer perform on stage in recent years, Vazdika maintains keen insights about the evolving theater landscape and shares her concerns regarding certain practices that she deems unacceptable.
With a reflective tone, she expressed her views on the transformation of theater, questioning the future of repertory theaters amidst the rise of guest directors and the prevalence of castings. “Of course, the theater has completely changed…,” she articulated, addressing the ongoing evolution with a blend of nostalgia and critical observation.
As she elaborated, “Not to mention the fact that guest directors are constantly coming… And it’s all so unacceptable for me – all those ‘castings’, all that… I completely closed myself off to some kind of ‘casting’.”
Vazdika conveyed her discomfort regarding the concept of “casting”, noting, “I have been walking on those boards all my life, ‘casting’ even now… And a stranger. I have such stupid thoughts – he enters my house and I will now go to the ‘casting’. I’m not going anywhere.” Ultimately, she made a decision to step back from these arrangements, illustrating her dedication to her principles and artistry.
Despite her concerns, Vazdika expressed her respect for Žagar, acknowledging the transformative impact he has had on the theater and expressing hope for his continued endeavors. “What he has done for the theater… Is invaluable. And may God give him the opportunity to continue,” she shared passionately.
The highly anticipated “Gamer’s Night” award ceremony is set to take place on November 23 at the Valmiera Theater, where it will be broadcast on Latvian Television channel 1.
Here is the recording of the program and the interview:
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How does Dika’s perspective on casting and guest directors reflect the broader changes in the theater community?
Dika remains deeply connected to the theater community and passionately supportive of its evolution. She opened up about her sentiments regarding changes in the theater landscape, conveying a longing for the traditional repertory theater model which she believes is gradually fading. Her observations regarding the increasing prevalence of “castings” and the arrival of guest directors showcased her attachment to the artistry she has long loved.
Reflecting on the notion of “casting,” Vazdika’s tone shifted from nostalgia to skepticism. Memories of longtime theater practices clashed with modern trends that introduced the idea of auditioning for roles, much like casting for a film. “What is ‘casting’ really? I feel like I’ve been performing all my life without needing to be ‘cast’ by anyone,” she exclaimed, clearly frustrated with this new expectation. The concept of guest directors entering her beloved space created an unsettling dynamic for her. Though she has adapted over the years, the thought of others “invading” her theater felt foreign and uncomfortable, as if they were trespassing on sacred ground.
Yet, her critiques do not detract from her admiration for contemporaries, especially for Žagar, whose work has made lasting contributions to the theater she loves. Despite her grievances, she expressed hope for the future of the industry under the guidance of passionate leaders dedicated to maintaining the craft’s integrity.
The upcoming “Gamer’s Night” award ceremony is a highlight on the calendar, where Vazdika will be lauded for not only her enduring contributions to the stage but also for the ripple effect of inspiration she has provided to countless actors and theater enthusiasts. Her story, intertwined with the evolution of Latvian theater, reminds us all of the vital roots of tradition even as the art form continues to evolve.
As the lights dim on the Valmiera Theater on November 23rd, audiences tuning into Latvian Television will witness a celebration of not just one actress, but the enduring spirit of theater itself—a tapestry woven with the dreams, hopes, and artistry of generations. The event promises a reflective moment for audiences to appreciate how far the theater has come, while honoring those who have been pivotal in shaping its legacy.
Thus, Ilze Vazdika stands not only as a recipient of accolades but as a symbol of the heart of the theater—a beacon of passion, resilience, and unwavering commitment that encourages us to embrace change while cherishing tradition.