THEATRE OKARUKAS AND PANEVĖŽYS THEATRE MENAS LITHUANIA
MEAT FACTORY
Concept and direction: Inga Fontez-Sakurako
Choreography: Inga Fontez-Sakurako and Phil Von, in collaboration with Mindaugas Ancevičius and other dancers/actors.
Composer: Phil Von
Video artist: Andrius Seliuta
Light artist: Vilius Vilutis
Set designer and costume designer: Neringa Keršulytė
Graphic designer: Arvydas Gudas
Author of the novel: Jaroslavas Melnikas
Actors/dancers: Gustė Balčiūtė, Radvilė Bronušaitė, Kotryna Chruškova, Aidas Jurgaitis, Dovilė Klementjeva, Martynas Klementjevas, Aliona Kuriakina, Agnė Muralytė, Phil Von.
Co-producer: Panevėžys Theater "Menas"
Partners and sponsors: Lithuanian Culture Council, Panevėžys Cultural Center, Integrity PR.
Duration: 90 mins | N-18
Photo by Paulius Židonis
The dance theater "Okarukas," together with the Panevėžys theater "Menas," presents the dance performance "Meat Factory," based on Jaroslav Melnik's novel Masha, or Postfascism. The rise of fascist ideas in Russia, the wars in Ukraine and the Gaza Strip, and the resurgence of extreme right-wing parties in Western Europe have raised concerns about the crisis of humanism in the context of recent geopolitical events. These concerns drive the search for relevant material and an artistic language that addresses fundamental questions about humanity.
The performance tells the story of Dima, a propaganda spreader who goes along with the flow, and his transformation—from a dehumanized farmer who mindlessly slaughtered human-shaped animals (called stori) kept in his barn, to a man who falls in love with one of them, Masha, and risks his life by resisting the established dictatorship.
The show is created using physical theater, contemporary dance with elements of butoh and flamenco, and the intense on-stage action typical of performance art. It incorporates electronic music, vocals, lights, and cinematic video projections.
"Meat Factory" explores current issues that are crucial for identifying and clarifying core European values—human dignity and equality. By examining the concepts of democracy and freedom, the performance raises questions about the essence of humanity, under what circumstances cruelty and totalitarianism take hold, and how they can be resisted.
It is important to note that the performance uses intense light and sound installations, which may affect sensitive individuals or those with epilepsy. The performance is rated N-18 and is recommended for adults.
The creation and dissemination of "Meat Factory" are partially funded by the Lithuanian Council for Culture. Partners include the Panevėžys Cultural Center and the public relations agency "Integrity PR."
