A powerful lesson for coexistence — essential and necessary in this time of globalization — is offered by the play “The Blind”, directed by Qëndrim Rijani and performed by the National Turkish Theatre. Based on Maurice Maeterlinck’s “The Blind” and infused with motifs from “In the Name of Identity” by Amin Maalouf, the production is set in a local context, bringing a story that is simultaneously universal, timeless, and intimately recognizable, creating a deep connection with all of us.
The play originally has 12 blind characters, but the production was adapted with 10 of them and their leader, who dies without them knowing it. Left stranded in an unknown forest, they are forced to wait, powerless to take steps or make a decision. As time passes, fear and uncertainty grow, creating an intense psychological tension that reveals their vulnerability. Trying to understand where they are and what surrounds them, the characters simultaneously begin a personal inner search. The director skillfully uses these moments to integrate the actors’ original stories, related to their struggles with identity and belonging.
The audience will have the opportunity to experience authentic and diverse testimonies about the struggle with identity — both on a personal and societal level — primarily through the prism of religious, ethnic, and linguistic differences, which remain among the most pronounced. From the very beginning, through Malouf’s quotes, we are reminded that the identity of each individual is a complex mosaic of different factors — place of birth, gender, education, profession, family, belonging to certain groups, and even physical characteristics or vulnerabilities with which we identify. Hence, no two human identities are alike; each tells a unique story, and in that very diversity, the essence of our shared existence resides.
Rijani once again addresses current, yet sensitive and essential social issues with bold and skillful moves, using theatre as a medium for commentary and dialogue. While the themes he explores are powerful and relevant, it is his creativity and innovation that leave an even stronger impression — evident in the way he connects the texts, structures the performance, and uses the stage space. The result is a truly unique and intimate atmosphere, in which the audience is not merely an observer, but an active participant in the shared theatrical experience.
The actors move beyond the small central stage and into the audience, gradually erasing the traditional boundary between performers and spectators, without disrupting the clarity of the action. At times, they position themselves along the walls of the room, almost merging with them — as if breaking through the physical limits of the stage — which enhances the immersive effect. While the scenes based on the original dramatic text retain a single directorial line, those inspired by the actors’ personal stories incorporate diverse nuances and are carefully crafted to highlight the emotional power of the moment.
Each actor contributes effectively to the growing dramatic tension, conveying the deep sense of loss and fear that defines their seemingly hopeless situation. At the same time, they bring even greater depth to the personal stories, which are translated into dynamic and vivid scenes where the other actors are actively involved, creating a collective and emotionally resonant theatrical experience.
Although the play does not have clearly defined main characters, the most present and driving force of the action is perhaps the role played by Slagjana Vujosevik, whose impressive performance and invested energy deserve special praise. At the same time, actors Hakan Daci and Yetkin Sezari, also stand out, with performances that further enhance the play’s emotional depth and overall dynamic.
The costumes by Medina Hoxha and Maja Gjureska play a key role in shaping the visual identity of the play. The characters are dressed in dark, predominantly black clothing, allowing them to blend seamlessly into the stage space and the ambiance of the room. However, carefully placed color accents and distinctive makeup introduce additional layers, highlighting the individuality and diversity of each character.
The music, carefully and thematically selected by Emrah Xhemaili, enriches each scene, seamlessly intertwining with the narrative and amplifying the emotional impact of each story. Striking sound effects further enhance the atmosphere, particularly during transitions between the dramatic text and the actors’ personal narratives, emphasizing shifts in context.
“The Blind” is much more than a theatrical experience — it is a poignant reminder of our shared humanity. Through the deeply personal stories woven into the play, it challenges us to look beyond the labels that divide us and to recognize the true strength that lies in solidarity. Love, in its many forms, also finds its place in this narrative, offering moments of warmth amidst the darkness. Just as the blind characters must lean on one another to move into the unknown, so too must we embrace our differences — not as barriers, but as the foundation of our collective resilience. For in both theatre and life, only by understanding, accepting, and standing together can we truly move forward. This is a play worth seeing — not only for its powerful message, but for the way it reaches the audience, opening space for reflection long after the final scene.
National Turkish Theatre – Skopje, Macedonia
Director: Qëndrim Rijani
Music: Emrah Xhemaili
Costumes: Medina Hoxha, Maja Gjureska
📷 Murat Zerka
Cast:
Cenap Samet
Hakan Daci
Yetkin Sezari
Suzan Akbelge
Funda Ibrahim
Nesrin Tair
Slagjana Vujosevik
Emine Halil
Zübeyde Ali
Ines Radoncik
Edin Jakupovic
