Latvian Actress Evija Krūze: A Career Defined by Passion and perseverance
Evija Krūze, born Evija Kromule on November 20, 1974, is a celebrated Latvian actress whose career has spanned over two decades. Since joining the National Theater of Latvia in 1996, she has captivated audiences with her talent and depth. The theatre’s website describes her as “an artistic artist, whose talent in her youth was quite cruelly exploited in the roles of fatal, captivating and seductive characters, often preventing [her] from showing that stunning women also have common sense, self-pride and a complex inner world. In recent years, Evija has demonstrated not only a wonderful sense of humor and feminine charm in her roles, but also wisdom in life, making us think about the deep waters that can still be revealed in this artist.”
Krūze’s dedication to her craft is evident in her own words: “I have always had this feeling that I only have to be an actress and nothing else. Well,looking back,I understand that I have not lost my way somewhere in my life,that this is my place. I feel in the theater the best. In life, of course, there are so many opportunities to experience these diffrent lives, to incarnate, to learn something new. And that’s what creates this youth in person. That you are like an eternal student. You are learning all the time!”
The demanding nature of her profession is something she embraces. “You have someone who will tell you: it’s not good, do this or that, and you have to listen, no matter how old you are,” she explains. “And this is a profession of miracles and such a profession of youth, young people in essence. Everyone, no matter how old we are, we must be like a youth, a young person.”
Beyond the stage, Krūze has graced Latvian television screens in series such as “UgunsGrēks,” “Viņas melo kjejjer,” and “Nemīlētie.” She is married to businessman and book publisher Aimurs Krūze and is a mother of two sons, Bruno and Roberta. This past fall, her performance as Mother in the play “Ugunsseja” earned her the prestigious “Spēlmaņu nakts” (Gamers’ Night) award for Supporting Actress of the Year, a recognition she deeply cherishes.
“This is really the kind of award that I have been waiting for, really, I have been waiting for all my life,” Krūze shared about her “Spēlmaņu nakts” win.”As every actor, when he starts his frist steps, he wants to be the best. He wants to be appreciated,to understand that the path you’re on,that it’s the right one,and in every step you take,you need people who tell you – yes,it’s good. What motivates you to go forward.”
Her journey highlights the dedication and perseverance required in the acting world. “When I was still a young actress, I was nominated once for ’Spēlmaņu nakts,’ I didn’t get that award, and I’ve always wanted to see on that list of nominations that you’ve been appreciated sometime, when a good job is done,” she reflects. “But it started to seem to me that I was entirely excluded somewhere, invisible.That every good deed always slips by somehow, and over the years I start to stop thinking about it. The prize is not the most important thing. The most important thing is that you yourself get fulfillment and you yourself understand this feeling that you…”
The Weight of applause: Navigating Success in the Arts
The pressures of success are a universal theme, resonating across cultures and creative fields. A recent Latvian Radio program delved into this very topic, exploring the complexities of recognition and its impact on artists. The program featured insightful commentary alongside a curated playlist,offering a unique perspective on the challenges and rewards of artistic achievement.
One prominent theme highlighted the duality of recognition. While external validation can be a powerful motivator, it can also create immense pressure. As one contributor eloquently stated, “But there are roles where there is doubt – is it good or not? However, if you have this recognition from the outside, you can more safely play that role and much more safely throw yourself in and give even more of yourself.” This statement encapsulates the paradoxical nature of success: the very validation that fuels an artist’s ambition can also become a source of self-doubt and heightened scrutiny.
The program further explored the idea that recognition,while rewarding,doesn’t signify an end point. Instead, it often elevates the stakes, leading to increased responsibility and a constant need to prove oneself. The contributor continued, explaining, “Because I think any recognition is just an impulse to go forward with such a bigger background: you are accepted among the best, accepted for a moment, recognized that you have done something good, that you are appreciated, but that does not mean, that you have to stop, and it still imposes an even greater responsibility, as you continue to play each role, that you will already be evaluated - is she the best or not the best actress? It’s a bit of a burden already.” This sentiment speaks to the ongoing pressure artists face to maintain their success and meet ever-evolving expectations.
A Musical Reflection: The Program’s Playlist
- Amy Winehouse – “Rehab”
- Audrey Hepburn – “Moon River”
- Katie Melua – “Nine Million Bicycles”
- Ivars Stonin – ”No, I’m not”
The carefully selected playlist accompanying the discussion served as a powerful complement, offering a diverse range of musical styles and emotional tones.From the soulful struggles of Amy Winehouse to the timeless elegance of Audrey Hepburn, the music mirrored the complexities of the conversation, underscoring the multifaceted nature of artistic success and the human experience it encompasses.
This Latvian Radio program offers a compelling glimpse into the internal struggles and external pressures faced by artists. It highlights the importance of acknowledging the complexities of success and the ongoing need for self-reflection and resilience in the face of both praise and criticism.
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Latvian Theater Star Evija Krūze: Balancing Passion,Perseverance,and Public Praise
This interview delves into the life and career of acclaimed Latvian actress Evija Krūze,exploring her experiences with balancing artistic passion,the demands of her craft,and the challenges of navigating success.
World-Today-News: Evija, thank you for joining us today. Your career has spanned over two decades, marked by critical acclaim and beloved performances. What initially drew you to the world of theatre?
Evija Krūze: Even as a child,I was drawn to storytelling and inhabiting different characters. The world of theatre felt like a natural extension of that, a place where I could explore the human condition through performance.
World-Today-News: You’ve won numerous awards for your work, including the prestigious ”Spēlmaņu nakts” award for your performance as Mother in “Ugunsseja.” How did it feel to receive that recognition?
Evija krūze: It was an incredible honor. Every actor dreams of that kind of validation, that feeling that your work has truly resonated with others. It’s affirming to know that you’re on the right path, that your dedication and hard work are paying off.
world-Today-News:
The Latvian Radio program we mentioned touched upon the complex relationship artists frequently enough have with recognition. They discussed the pressure that can come with success. Have you personally experienced that?
Evija krūze: Absolutely. There’s a constant internal debate, a tug-of-war between wanting to create fulfilling work and the desire for external approval. It’s a delicate balance, and it requires self-awareness and a strong sense of personal purpose.
World-Today-News: How do you navigate those pressures? What keeps you grounded and focused on your craft?
Evija Krūze: I try to remember why I started acting in the first place – the sheer joy of storytelling and connecting with an audience. It’s about the journey, the exploration, and the human connections that are forged through theatre. When I focus on that essence, the external pressures become less overwhelming.
World-Today-News: Your career covers both theater and television. What are some of the key differences you’ve noticed in those mediums?
Evija Krūze: Each medium has its own unique challenges and rewards. On stage, there’s an immediacy and energy that is electrifying.The audience is right there with you, sharing the experience in real-time. Television allows for a different kind of intimacy and nuance, reaching a wider audience and exploring complex narratives in greater depth.
World-Today-News: What advice would you give to aspiring actors just starting their journey?
Evija Krūze: Be persistent, be patient, and never lose sight of your passion. It’s a demanding profession,but the rewards are immense – both personally and creatively. Surround yourself with supportive people, embrace every prospect to learn and grow, and never stop believing in yourself.
