«Elpjot smailus» – the first scene in the Puppet Theater about overcoming the problems of new parents / Article

The production shows the emotional exhaustion and burnout in the lives of new parents, who often hide behind a smile, feeling drained and unhappy inside. Postpartum depression, emotional exhaustion and new parent burnout are topics that are finally being talked about, but still too little. “Elpojot smadeus” was created by the director Dana Avotiņa-Lāce based on personal experience, looking back at the feelings and thoughts she experienced while on maternity leave.

Dana Avotiņa-Lāce says “the main thing is to go through this difficult phase of life meaningfully and not lose yourself along the way. The role of a new parent is a path of individuality and self-development. through awareness – everyone has been there, and there is no room for conversation. But the conversation is needed!

Avotiņa-Lāce invited artist Vita Radziņa to join her team in creating the play area and costume, the musical score was made by composer Kārlis Tone, video by Bruno Kabucis, Ugis Jansons-Krastiņš at the sound console, lighting artist Guido Āboliņš, and Dana Avotiņa will play the role.

The exhibition “Breathing Smiles” will appeal not only to new parents, but to anyone who wants to understand the different emotions associated with family life. It invites us to reflect on the importance of mental health, expressing aloud the questions that new mothers ask themselves silently, for fear of being misunderstood or condemned. The show highlights new parents’ need for more compassion and support, offering an artistic platform for discussion on how we can all be more compassionate and understanding.

“Elpjot smaidus” will be shown for the first time on October 24. The exhibition was made with the financial support of the Latvian Academy of Culture.

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