The first edition of the Jagoš Marković Theatre Festival opened at the KIC in Podgorica on December 1, 2023. The festival commenced with a performance of “Ćelava pjevačica” (The Bald Soprano), directed by Jagoš Marković and produced by the Centre for Culture Tivat. This production is significant as it marks Marković’s final directorial work.
Before the play began, Tamara Vujović, the Minister of Culture and Media, and Jelena Borovinić-Bojović, President of the Assembly of the Capital City, delivered speeches. Their addresses were met with audible disapproval from segments of the audience, who voiced their dissent with loud booing.
The tension escalated when Minister Vujović greeted distinguished guests, including the President of Montenegro, Jakov Milatović, and the Mayor of Podgorica, Sasa Mujović. The audience interrupted her salutation with chants of “ua, ua,” prompting Vujović to question, “Did I say something wrong?” This exchange was followed by a brief moment of applause, yet the discontent continued throughout her speech.
In her address, Borovinić-Bojović acknowledged the mixed reactions by thanking “both those who booed and those who applauded,” highlighting the passionate engagement of the audience. Sandara Vujović, Director of the City Theatre, also spoke following the ministers, contributing to the event’s charged atmosphere.
The festival will continue with the performance of “Filomena Marturano,” also directed by Jagoš Marković, scheduled for December 2. The event is set to run until December 6, showcasing various theatrical interpretations and celebrating the legacy of its namesake, Jagoš Marković.
As the festival unfolds, it aims to draw attention to both the artistic endeavors in the region and the challenges faced by the cultural sector, as illustrated by the lively responses from the audience.
