19.11.2025

Last night, November 19, 2025, the Gjilan Theatre became the stage for psychological tension and individual tragedy in the performance of Woyzeck. Under the direction of Zana Hoxha and the daring adaptation by Jack Thorne, the drama immersed the audience in a world where systemic violence, economic pressure, and lack of well-being transform the life of a broken soldier into a profound experience of alienation.

As Shemsi Doda writes, “Zana Hoxha builds the play with remarkable psychological clarity. With almost surgical precision, she unveils Woyzeck’s moral and physical fractures, emphasizing how economic pressure, lack of welfare, and systemic violence can plunge a person into darkness.”

Actors Bujar Ahmeti, Vlora Dervishi, Edi Kastrati, Aurita Agushi, Arbies Komoni, Altina Kusari, and Eden Kastrati brought the character to an emotional climax, gradually building intensity that kept the audience engaged with Woyzeck’s tragic journey and psychological development. As Doda notes, “The acting intensity increased gradually, creating an organic rise that kept the audience connected to the character’s tragic progression.”

The simple yet intelligent set, lighting that guided the audience through the characters’ inner worlds, functional costumes, and original music all harmonized to create a rich and sustained theatrical experience.

The long applause at the end reflected the audience’s emotional engagement and appreciation. According to Doda, “Woyzeck by the Gjakova Theatre is a work that grows gradually, gains weight over time, and manages to strike the nerves of modern drama.”

This presentation of the play in Gjilan confirmed the power of art to move, provoke reflection, and open dialogue about trauma, alienation, and the challenges of the individual in a complex society.

Woyzeck is a co-production of “Hadi Shehu” Theatre and Artpolis, supported by the Municipality of Gjakovë and UNFPA.