This is the first time National Theatre of Kosovo has presented a piece about the well-known Sufi poet, Rumi. To tell his story the troop have gone through an intense training to captivate authentic dervish dances. “Destur”, a play by Musa Ramadani and a novel within a novel called “Sweet Blasphemy” ( from “40 Rules of Love” by Elif Shafak) have all merged to create a play with dramaturgy and directed by Zana Hoxha.
Set in the 13th century, this play revolves around the various interpretations of religion and love and the conflicts that arise between academic intellect and pure wisdom. Shams of Tabris, a wanderer searching for God, has found his purest form of love and his captivating presence leaves all people transformed when they cross Shams’ path. Maulana Rumi, is a dervish (Sufi) imam praised for his academical wisdom for God.
The dramatic encounter of Shams and Rumi in the city of Konyo is the turning point to Rumi’s spiritual journey. These [two] lock themselves in Rumi’s library for 40 days as each day, they discuss the 40 Rules of Love. This love is addressed to God throughout the story, but its magic lies in the relevance of the philosophical discussions about romantic love, pertinent to modern day 21st century. Shams teaches Rumi how to open his heart entirely and experience God in a new way.
Leading roles: Maulana Rumi: Çun Lajçi, Shems of Tabriz: Shkelzen Veseli Other roles: Armend Smajli, Edlir Gashi, May-Linda Kosumoviç, Semira Latifi, Anisa Ismajli, Basri Lushtaku, Kushtrim Qerimi, Flamur Ahmeti, Armend Ballazhi, Mikel Markaj, Selman Jusufi, Florent Salihu, Blend Sadiku, Leonit Maloku. Choreographer: Robert Nuha, Costumes and Stage Design: Youliana Vojkova-Najman, Music: Memli Kelmendi, Assistant Director: Flutura Çelaj, Stage Manager: Bajram Mehmetaj, Lighting: Sherif Salihu dhe Mursel Bekteshi, AV: Arben Aliu, Stage Organiser: Aziz Maloku. This play is dedicated to Mr. Istref Begolli, iconic actor of the National Theatre.
