Under Pressure from the Ministry of Culture, Dailes Theatre Fires Actors, Reduces Number of Premieres, and Begins to Cater to Public Demand 0 17

She explained that a total of seven actor positions are being eliminated, three of which were still vacant, so there will be no savings from these positions.

The savings from the reduction of four actor positions will amount to 147,191 euros per year. This means that each of the four actors cost the state theatre approximately 37,000 euros per year. Cleaners will also be laid off, but the number has not yet been calculated.

However, after the layoffs, Dailes will not turn into a one-actor theatre. The theatre will retain 33 actors and actresses. Large-scale productions can still be staged.

By the way, regarding the productions – they will be less grand, as this year they will spend 200,000 euros less on sets, costumes, etc., than last year. There is, however, hope that part of the reduced state funding will be compensated by private sponsors and international philanthropists. So the audience should not notice a significant difference.

The harsh hand of the market has reached the creative plans of cultural figures. The theatre is forced to acknowledge that due to inflation and reduced subsidies, the total number of new performances this year will be fewer than last year, and the repertoire will have to focus on projects that can recoup costs more quickly. This means forgetting about high art and working to meet public demand.

One consolation is that, unlike the frugal government of Siliņa, grateful audiences will not abandon their favorites in times of trouble. At least, according to the theatre administration's calculations, ticket sales are currently expected to remain at the same level.

Let us remind you that in September 2024, Dailes Theatre received instructions to reduce state funding by 276,205 euros. The Ministry of Culture, currently headed by Agnesa Lāce from the Progressive Party, ordered the cuts.