Monta Kroma (1919–1994) is one of the most brilliant and innovative representatives of Latvian modernism. It was several years ago that the events and publications dedicated to the poet’s centenary, including the anthology Trotuārs (Pavement) compiled by literary scholar Agija Ābiķe-Kondrāte, revitalised the role of this unusual poet in the lyrical space of the 1970s and in the entire history of Latvian poetry. In Kroma's works, dynamic city themes, intimate emotions, sensuality, and graphic expression are revealed. Although often rejected or misunderstood by the literary world, these poems have survived their time and allow us to speak of Kroma as an innovative and fascinating poet, whose legacy attracts attention in the context of modernism and urban poetry, as well as feminist writing. Kroma’s poetry also inspired the programme Dzeltens trotuārs (Yellow Pavement) with original music by Anna Veismane, whose creation was significantly influenced by the highly creative team – the phenomenal actress Guna Zariņa (who, as it turns out, also plays the piano!) and well-known Latvian musicians: flutist Maija Zandberga, bassoonist Jānis Semjonovs, and pianist Rihards Plešanovs. It only remains to add that Dzeltens trotuārs was named “The Chamber Play of the Year” at the 2023 Grand Music Awards ceremony!
Programme
Music by Anna Veismane and poetry by Monta Kroma
Participants
Actress Guna Zariņa
Maija Zandberga, flute
Jānis Semjonovs, bassoon
Rihards Plešanovs, piano
