A brave, emancipated upstart or a fragile, bereaved girl who went into battle out of desperation? At the very least, she was an opinion-maker, an orator of her time, who managed to convince sceptics that she could lead the resistance. Who is this girl who inspired courage not only in women but also in men?

Countess Emilija Pliaterytė, the first participant in the Polish-Lithuanian Uprising of 1830-1831 and a captain who resisted the Russian Empire. Who could have imagined that she would be embodied by the well-known singer and Eurovision finalist Monika Liu? According to the singer, she will be seen in an unexpected role. This project promises to be an intriguing experience and will surprise even Monica Liu’s biggest fans.

The musical drama “Emilija” is an ambitious project of the state ensemble “Lietuva”, which has invited a never-before-seen tandem – director-dramaturg Kęstutis Jakštas and director of major Lithuanian events Dalius Abaris. The premiere is scheduled for autumn 2024 on the biggest stages in the country: 25 October. 25 October at the Avia Solutions Group Arena in Vilnius, 8 November at the Avia Solutions Group Arena in Vilnius. On 15 November at Klaipėda’s Švyturys Arena. Panevėžys Kalnapilis Arena, 22 November at Šiauliai Arena, and 26 November at the Vilnius Shuttle Arena. Kaunas Žalgiris Arena. Monika Liu will be joined by other famous guest actors and performers, whose names will be revealed later.

“Emilia is a musical-historical drama, a monument to Joan of Arc, proving that even a seemingly fragile personality can, if necessary, have a huge impact on the struggle for freedom, for ideas and for one’s country. It is a symbolic commemoration of a heroine of both nations, because, according to historians, Emilia Plater was a heroine of both Lithuanians and Poles.

As you understand, we can expect a new musical in Lithuania, but the question is whether it will be a classic one or whether the creative team will take a slightly unconventional path, looking for a new fusion of music and performing arts – time will tell. Personally, I always find it more interesting to look for new forms of expression, although it would be very interesting to create a historical, costume drama. There are many beautiful stories and legends about Lithuanian women, but I think a portrait of such a woman will be a discovery for many. Emilia’s story is definitely worthy not only of the stage, but also of the big screen,” says another director, D. Abaris, who directed the ensemble’s other musical drama, Sakmė o dāvanotą širdį / The Tale of a Gifted Heart.

The plot of the musical drama is based on true events, while at the same time delving into a young woman’s inner experiences of love for her people, her husband, her mother, her father. Closed-minded and living in the shadow of her parents’ constant conflict, Emilija Pliaterytė has longed for freedom since she was a little girl. Not satisfied with her position in the family and in society, she did not want to be just a “keeper of the home”, she learned to shoot and fight with swords, and learned to ride well. When she heard that an uprising had broken out in Poland, Emilia dressed up in men’s clothes, cut her hair and went out with other rebels to force the Tsar’s hand. Thus the legend of Emilia Plater was born.

Historical events will be presented with contemporary performing arts solutions – set design, costumes, dance and music. Composer Jievaras Jasinskis has chosen a very unusual version of electronic music, using Lithuanian national instruments.

The State Ensemble “Lietuva” continues its campaign “Let’s grow the muscle of unity” and invites everyone to unite through our common history. A history that comes to life in a new way through outstanding personalities on the musical theatre stage.

DEVELOPERS:
Directed by Kęstutis Stasys Jakštas and Dalius Abaris
Composer: Jievaras Jasinskis
Screenplay and libretto by Sandra Bernotaitė
Set designer: Gintaras Makarevičius
Costume Designer: Olga Filatova-Kontrimienė
Choreographer: Aušra Krasauskaitė
Conductor: Egidijus Kaveckas
Assistant Director: Giedrė Kriaučionytė-Vosylienė

SOLISTS:
Emilija Pliaterytė: Monika Liu

PERFORMERS:
State Ensemble “Lietuva”
Vilnius Culture Centre Polish Song and Dance Ensemble “Vilija”