Australia meets Croatia in unique new LADO theatre production

(Photo: LADO)

Croatia’s renowned national folklore ensemble LADO is set to make a bold step onto the international theatre scene with DVA/LICA (TWO/FACES), its most ambitious dramatic project to date.

In a unique collaboration with acclaimed Australian-Malaysian theatre collective TerryandTheCuz, the performance blends tradition, innovation, and immersive technology.

Premiering from 27 to 29 June 2025 at the Zagreb Youth Theatre (Zagrebačko kazalište mladih), DVA/LICA marks a new chapter in LADO’s distinguished 75-year history.

Known for preserving and showcasing Croatia’s rich cultural heritage through dance and music, the ensemble ventures into contemporary theatre in this groundbreaking hybrid production.

At the heart of DVA/LICA is the story of a LADO lead dancer preparing for what may be her final performance.

As she readies herself backstage, her world unravels into a vivid kaleidoscope of memories, rituals, and echoes of the ensemble’s past and future. Through this lens, the show explores the personal and collective sacrifices behind the role of cultural ambassador.

Directed by Govin Ruben of TerryandTheCuz, the production integrates advanced 3D visual and audio technologies, combining live performance with holographic recordings.

This innovative approach examines the fragility of memory and tradition, reflecting on how stories shape—and are shaped by—cultural identity.

A strong team of Croatian and international creatives bring the project to life, including dramaturg Luka Galešić, co-director Vid Adam Hribar, movement director Danielle Micich, sound designer Michael Toisuta, video designer Solomon Thomas, and technical designer Abdul Shakir.

DVA/LICA has already drawn international attention, having been selected for the prestigious Pitch New Works platform by the International Society for the Performing Arts (ISPA).

The project will be presented to over 500 cultural leaders from around the globe at ISPA’s annual congress in Lugano, Switzerland on 12 June 2025, under the theme Art and Social Political Change.

The production is co-funded by the Croatian Ministry of Culture and Media and supported by Creative Australia, reflecting the strength and vision of this cross-continental artistic partnership.