On 10 April at 7 p.m., the production “As the language, so the mind”, created in collaboration between the Integration Foundation and Theatre Epiloog, will premiere at Kukruse Manor.
“As the language, so the mind” is a theatrical exploration in the form of community theatre, focusing on the experiences of people living in Estonia whose native language is not Estonian. The production offers a glimpse into these people’s daily lives, memories, and personal stories, and asks how they feel about Estonia, the Estonian language, and Estonian culture. The main questions being asked are how language learning and the language environment have influenced their identity and mindset, and whether ‘being Estonian’ is something foreign to them or something they can come to embrace.
According to director Elar Vahter, the production offers an exclusive insight into the perception of the Ida-Viru community, where we find clues to many pressing societal issues and perhaps also answers to why some things are exactly the way they are. ‘Different cultures, countries, and peoples have their own unique perception of the world and way of thinking, which is reflected in their language. Language is not merely a means of communication, but a cultural foundation and a way of thinking – the lens through which we perceive the world, ourselves, and others,’ said Elar Vahter.
The production is also part of informal language learning and integration. Through theatre, the project fosters participants’ self-expression, confidence in using the language, and sense of belonging. The initiative is based on the belief that language and identity are shaped primarily through relationships, experiences, and by listening to and noticing one another.
According to Signe Viilop, project manager for community theatre at the Integration Foundation, everyone is eagerly awaiting the premiere. ‘Although the rehearsal period has been exhausting, the participants all have a sparkle in their eyes. According to them, the theatre project has given them the confidence to express themselves, helped them overcome language barriers, and strengthened their sense of community,’ said the project manager.
Photos by Maila Meldre from the premiere of the production: https://photos.app.goo.gl/7hBKgVe5KzqDYoA29
The creative team behind the production includes Elar Vahter, director and dramaturge, Avery Gerhardt, movement director, Madis Kreevan, composer, Rommi Ruttas, lighting designer, and Gerli Kokk, producer.
The cast includes Aleksandra Staškova, Andrei Škaleta, Anna Dunaeva, Anna Rehema, Elena Aminchikova, Jevgenia Dvornik, Nataliia Pokoloda, Svetlana Sandakova, Tatjana Amerhanova, Irina Gritsinenko, Galina Ivanova, Alice Saramago Rosário, Tatjana Grüning, and Anželika Germ.
