Last year's successful collaboration between the Amateur Theatre "Moreta" and the writer Nataša Jukić on the monodrama "Kučka", which achieved notable success with multiple guest performances throughout Croatia, continues this year. The well-coordinated cast is working tirelessly on the new play "Mater", which will have its premiere performance as part of the Kaštela Cultural Summer on Saturday, July 12th at the Kaštel Lukšić Cultural Center, starting at 8:30 p.m.
On this occasion, we spoke with writer Nataša Jukić, who wrote the text and directed the play.
How did "Mater" come about?
- I can't say exactly how, but I can say why it came into being. The very word "mother" is the root of every human being. A gentle and strong cornerstone, a river from which we flowed through the world. Some woman brought us into this world, carried us under her heart, raised us and protected us the best she knew how. Mom, mother, mother. In our tradition, there is this tacit idealization of the mother as "the one who always knows what and how to do it, gets on everyone's nerves, and it's hard to imagine life without her". Mother is an institution. Why is this sacred word also used as a curse word? - because it hurts the most.
What can the audience expect from the show?
- I don't like to suggest expectations or impose lessons or messages on the audience of a piece I'm working on. What I can say is that "Mater" is a life story, tangible, real, possible, homely and authentic. It is woven from images like life itself - a handful of tears, a bag of laughter - and I believe that every viewer will be able to identify with a single image from the play. Whether through laughter or tears, everything falls under the rubric of life.
How does this play differ from the monodrama "The Bitch", which last year caused ovations and enthusiasm from the audience?
- It's completely different. I don't like to repeat myself in my creations. I prefer to play in new areas of art and not be boring to myself or others. "Mater" is a play starring six actors from the Moreta amateur theater. The challenge, with all the worldly obligations that these people have, is to keep the group vital in its work, to meet deadlines and rehearsal times. But now, after several months of work behind us and numerous challenges that had to be overcome, I believe that by the premiere we will have a beautiful story to present to the public.
What are your expectations in terms of success and audience reaction?
- I generally have no expectations in life. Expectations are a stumbling block and usually a transfer of responsibility to others. Through work, I give my all, I don't work under the brakes, I press the gas so that the idea comes to life and conveys the message. This small group of enthusiasts (Lily, Marina, Vinka, Marko, Noa and Stela), I am sure, will do their best to make "Mater" reach everyone who takes the time to look at and support their work. Maybe "Mater" will comfort you, maybe make you angry, maybe wake you up, make you happy or sad. I don't expect it, but I hope with all my heart that we will all have a good time.
The entrance is free.
Photo: illustration
