On the first weekend of July, theatre will reign over Klaipėda’s open-air spaces as the international street theatre festival “Šermukšnis” returns to the city. This colourful celebration, held for the 23rd time, also marks a special milestone — the 40th anniversary of its creative journey. The origins of the festival date back to 1985 when director Alvydas Vizgirda initiated and organised a chamber theatre showcase. Over the years, the event grew, spreading across the city and becoming Klaipėda’s signature international summer event. Alvydas Vizgirda served as the festival’s artistic director for 30 years. For the past decade, the festival has been organised by the creative team of Klaipėda Culture Centre Žvejų Rūmai.
From July 3rd to 5th, “Šermukšnis” performances will take place at Danė Square, Karlskrona Square, Theatre Square, the courtyard of the bar “Herkus Kantas,” Jonas Hill (Jono kalnelis), and the square by the Culture Factory (Kultūros fabrikas). On July 6th, the festival will travel beyond Klaipėda to Kretinga, Priekulė, and Šilutė.
Over four days, audiences will enjoy 23 performances (symbolically matching the festival’s 23rd edition) in a wide variety of genres — from traditional street clownery to grand fiery musical shows. The event will feature 11 theatre troupes, bringing together performers from 15 countries worldwide.
This year’s festival theme can be summed up as “Returns and Discoveries”, reflecting its core mission — to present high-quality artistic performances while balancing topics from global political and existential concerns to provocative everyday situations and lighthearted entertainment.
All events of the 23rd International Street Theatre Festival “Šermukšnis” are free of charge. To our loyal festival visitors, we wish good weather and even better emotions!
Find more information about the festival programme at: www.zvejurumai.lt