FOLK PASSION

On November 14 at 19:00 at the Latgale Embassy "Gors," we will have the premiere performance of FOLK PASSION.

"Francis Trasunswas the first Latgalian who sought and found a way to understanding between the twoseparated parts of our nation. In his clear and bright political path, he alwaysapproached the broad masses of the nation and its soul: he became more democratic andprogressive. Such a path is given only to the rare. And he was rare, a strongly pronouncedpersonality who was able to sacrifice for his beliefs. His memory will remain notonly in Latgale but throughout Latvia."

Rainis

Francis Trasuns, a cultural and spiritual worker of Latgaliansand Latvians, a statesman, and a writer, is one of the most significant figureswho contributed to the integration of Latgale into Latvia's cultural and historical regions.Trasuns defended the Latgalian language and culture throughout his life.

Franča Trasuna's life was like a crossroads between political lifeand religion. Due to his political career, he was excommunicated from the CatholicChurch. Francis Trasuns died in Riga in April 1926 of a heart attack after beingexpelled from the Easter service at Riga's St. Jacob's Church.

Franča Trasuna's life closely intertwines with the form of passion.Composer Laura Jēkabsone, inspired by Bach and other composers' passions,created the first passion in the Latgalian language. This premiere reflects the cultural diversityof the historical lands of Latgale, combining the Latgalian language,traditional spiritual chants, and thematic lines. The libretto is written byLatgalian poet Anna Rancāne.

In the world premiere of FOLK PASSION, an outstandingteam of artists will participate:
Riga Project Choir, Latvian National Symphony Orchestra,post-folklore group "Rikši," Jānis Strazdiņš, as well as the artisticdirector and conductor Christopher Walsh Sinka.