Dance and Circus Performance for Children Aged 3–5: The Planet of Friendship

The dance and circus performance for children, “The Planet of Friendship,” is a journey into the world of Čiurlionis. Can a planet fit in the palm of your hand? Can creativity become a rocket to the far reaches of the imagination? “The Planet of Friendship” invites young audience members on a distinctive artistic journey where the boundaries between reality and imagination disappear. This performance-journey tells a story of friendship and discovery through contemporary dance, circus, music and visual art, inspired by the work of M. K. Čiurlionis.

This unique educational project brings professional artists together with the younger generation. The little ones become not only spectators but active participants: they are invited to explore, touch and create together. The stage features not only performers but also interactive installations, unexpected objects and a sensory environment in which children’s world merges with Čiurlionis’s artistic universe.

Čiurlionis is not only Lithuania’s most famous artist, but also an eternal dreamer whose paintings and music breathe mystery and invite us to think, feel and create. Marking the 150th anniversary of his birth in 2025, this performance becomes a bridge between generations, introducing young children to the bright, sensitive and colourful power of artistic creation.

“The Planet of Friendship” is a safe, playful and engaging space. It is not only the first contemporary dance and circus performance of its kind for the very youngest; it is an experience in which every child becomes a creator. Let’s set off on a journey together and discover where friendship, imagination and art live. Perhaps they are right here, in the palms of our hands.

After the premiere, young audience members are invited to a half-hour educational activity and to meet the artists, creators and performers of the dance and circus performance. You are warmly invited!

CREATIVE TEAM:
Director, choreographer and dancer – INDRĖ PUIŠYTĖ-ŠIDLAUSKIENĖ
Circus artist – DŽIUGAS KUNSMANAS
Dancer – AKVILĖ VAIČIUKYNAITĖ
Composer – ANDRIUS ŠIURYS
Set designer and object creator – SIMONAS ŠIDLAUSKAS
Visuals creator – SAULIUS PALIUKAS
Lighting designer – RENALDAS BARTULIS
Costume designer – RADVILĖ KISIELIŪTĖ-KAIKARIENĖ

The performance is filmed and photographed. After the performance, young audience members are invited to a 20-minute educational activity and to meet the artists, creators and performers of the dance and circus performance. You are warmly invited!

The activities of the “Ulna” troupe are partially funded by the Lithuanian Council for Culture. Partners: KKC / Kaunas Culture Centre, Ukmergė Culture Centre, Ukmergė City Municipality, Lithuanian Dance Information Centre.