Photo by Dmitrij Matvejev

It seems that the entire theatrical Lithuania has combined forces in order to climb the Everest of American musical. Starting with charismatic pianist Petras Geniušas, a nugget from Klaipėda – Darius Meškauskas, the legend of Kaunas drama - Gražina Balandytė, and finishing with the joint forces of the Kaunas Musical Theatre rallied by “the odd man” Aidas Giniotis. It is true, though, that Lithuanian forces were insufficient - Latvian actress Viktorija Streiča performed the role of Sali. Lithuanians expressed their gratitude to Streiča by granting her the Golden Stage Cross.

Director Aidas Giniotis demonstrates an impressive slalom among various theatre genres full of banal and dramatic situations, subtle and shallow thoughts, genuine elegance and open kitsch. Thanks to all artists who have caught the bacillus of “Cabaret,” the link worthy of the demanding nature of musical crystallizes. (…)Viktorija Streiča (…) doesn’t pay much attention to comparisons. With her looks, she surpasses even Lisa Minelli who played and sang flawlessly in the film. Streiča creates her complex and diverse character with the help of her personal colours. She manages to convey forcefully both moments of torrid triumph (the way to forget?) and the tragic end concealed within the suspension points of the finale.

By Edmundas Gedgaudas. Slalom. Cabaret at Kaunas Musical Theatre. (Lith. Slalomas. Kabaretas Kauno muzikiniame teatre). 7 meno dienos,11-03- 2005

The team of unconventional actors and soloists from Lithuania has been gathered for this performance. Costume designer Vilma Masteikienė created nice costumes reminiscent of interwar fashion. Every evening the audience can hear and see pianist and art director of Cabaret Petras Geniušas. Colourful, vivid and powerful music played by a talented musician. Fascinating musical as well as theatrical discoveries.

By Alina Ramanauskienė. Temptations of Cabaret. (Lith. „Kabareto” vilionės). Literatūra ir menas, 04-02-2005