For Women and Their Men

Whether you are 30, 50 or 80, whatever your social circumstances or field of work, sometimes you need to pause and talk to yourself. Reflect on your way of life, and not let yourself become resigned to the monotony and routine that weigh you down. The one-woman show “For Women and Their Men” tells the story of one of many women who needed to stop, rethink her habits, everyday life and personal relationships, and resolve to change. Here, Shirley Valentine shares her story. She spends most of her life within four walls, usually alone: her children have grown up and left home, while her husband spends almost all his time at work. Shirley Valentine lives in her memories, and her best conversation partner is the kitchen wall. When a friend who has won the lottery is preparing to go to Greece, Shirley seizes the opportunity and goes with her. During the trip, she begins to observe and analyse herself and the world around her from the outside. She realises that life never stands still, but moves forward—and so does she. The play “For Women and Their Men” is based on the play “Shirley Valentine” (1986) by the renowned English playwright Willy Russell. His works are staged on the world’s leading theatre stages, adapted for the screen and recipients of various awards. Described as a modern classic, this incredibly funny and engaging play became a sensation on the stages of theatres in London and New York. It won the prestigious Laurence Olivier Award for Best New Comedy, and actress Pauline Collins received an Oscar nomination for her leading role in Lewis Gilbert’s film “Shirley Valentine” (1989). At the Juozas Miltinis Drama Theatre, the work became a memorable showcase for the talented actress Ligita Kondrotaitė and one of the theatre’s longest-running productions—in October 2024, “For Women and Their Men” was performed for the hundredth time! The one-woman show “For Women and Their Men” is a story of self-discovery. As the show’s director and actress, Ligita Kondrotaitė, says: “The situation explored in the show is familiar to many women. Even more often, we deny it: this definitely won’t happen to us. The show can be called a comedy, but it does more than make you laugh; ultimately, it is a drama based on subtle humour.” The project is funded by the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Lithuania.