The Bright Red Umbrella

A playful game with a little bright red sun

How high were the tables and ceilings, how close was the sun, how close was the sky, how far away was the garden when I was small.

Betti Alver’s “The Bright Red Umbrella” brings the childhood games of two sisters to the stage, along with their fun, joys and moods—and rain that speaks Latin. Based on a well-known poem by Betti Alver, this wordless production can be understood by audiences aged three and up.

Director Karl Sakrits: “The writer Betti Alver has been dear to me as a poet since childhood. Betti and I are both children of the same hometown, Jõgeva, though we were born and lived in very different times. So I never met Betti, but when I read her poetry, I still feel that we know each other. Betti Alver herself said that nothing had been added to this story—it all happened exactly as written. I did add to the poem, though, drawing on my own childhood games and those of the actors. That is how this nearly wordless production came about. I believe it will bring joy to children today and recognition to those who were once children.”

Author: Betti Alver
Playwright and director: Karl Sakrits
Designer: Gerli Mägi
Composer: Vootele Ruusmaa
Lighting designer: Triin Rahnu

Good to know: The performance is suitable for children aged three and up, and is recommended for preschoolers.

The performance takes place at Reola Kultuurimaja: Valge tee 1, Uhti küla, Kambja vald, Tartumaa 61712.

More information: aive.vahejoe@kambja.ee

IN SIMPLE LANGUAGE

The Bright Red Umbrella

A story from childhood. Two sisters play with an umbrella. The umbrella comes from a poem by Betti Alver; the games come from the childhoods of the actors and director. Very little is spoken in this performance.