Events

This is a fragmented, visual, and poetic performance that sheds light on a rarely seen aspect of the Lithuanian Partisan War—the stories of women and their quiet yet pivotal role in the resistance.

The partisan war of 1944–1953 is most often recounted through the stories of the men who fought in the forests, but without the help of women, this movement would have been much more difficult, if not impossible. The play invites us to view this period through the eyes of women.

On stage, the voices of partisans, songs, Lithuanian folklore, and the language of object theater intertwine. The fragmented narrative reveals the fates of couriers, nurses, newspaper distributors, lovers, sisters, and daughters. Their daily lives are marked by constant tension, danger, and choices in which there is no safe haven.

These are stories about the silence that protects. About the waiting that hurts. About love that doesn’t save, but gives meaning.

The motif of the Lithuanian folk tale “The Twelve Brothers Who Turned into Ravens” recurs throughout the play. Just as in the tale, the woman here takes a vow of silence—patiently, through pain, through time. By knitting a shirt of nettles, she saves her brothers. Her efforts, patience, and self-sacrifice become a metaphor for the women who quietly but steadfastly supported the brothers of the forest.

“The Black Crow Sisters” invites audiences to view the partisan era from a sensitive, poetic, and rarely seen perspective—through the voices, emotions, and experiences of women, as well as their silence and strength.

Creative team:

Director – Milda Mičiulytė
Puppet and object director, choreographer – Augis Slavinskas
Dramaturg and composer – Ieva Pakštytė Composer
of background music – Martynas Bialobževskis
Set designer – Renata Valčik
Lighting designer – Julius Kuršys
Actresses – 𝐋𝐚𝐢𝐦𝐚 𝐀𝐤𝐬𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐢𝐭𝐞̇, Elžbieta Girkanite, Viva Kvederviče, 𝐑𝐮𝐠𝐢𝐥𝐞̇ 𝐋𝐚𝐭𝐯𝐞̇𝐧𝐚𝐢𝐭𝐞̇, Ieva Paštytė, Evelina Šimelionė
Assistant – Gabija Bargailaitė