He chose the right profession: the biggest moment of the evening belonged to the actor Aleš Valič (PHOTO)

The 61st Festival Borštnikovo Srečanje concluded on June 21, 2026, in Maribor with a ceremony that celebrated the finest achievements in Slovenian theater. The festival, one of the most significant cultural events in Slovenia, showcased the enduring vitality and creative power of the country’s theatrical scene. Among the many accolades awarded, the most prestigious—Borštnikov Prstan—was presented to actor Aleš Valič, whose performance was hailed as a masterclass in acting. His work over the years has left an indelible mark on Slovenian theater, as well as on other media such as radio, film, television, and education. Valič, who began his professional journey at the Slovenian Permanent Theatre in Trieste before becoming a central figure at Ljubljana's Drama Theatre, received the award for his exceptional artistic contribution. The jury praised his “artistic integrity, expressive breadth, and recognizable dramatic style,” which have shaped some of the most profound and diverse paths of his generation. The prize was handed over by last year’s recipient, Nataša Barbara Gračner, who also commended Valič for his deep love of language. Valič himself expressed gratitude, stating, “I think I chose the right profession.”

The evening was marked by several notable awards, with the most prominent going to the production of King Lear directed by Jernej Lorenci and produced by the National Theatre Drama Ljubljana. This play was recognized as the best performance of the festival, with the jury emphasizing its “artistically complete” nature. The production, based on Shakespeare’s classic tragedy, was described as a powerful and thought-provoking interpretation that does not treat the text as a distant literary relic but rather as a living material for reflection on power, the collapse of social order, and the fragility of human existence. The play’s unique approach resonated deeply with both critics and audiences, reinforcing the relevance of classical works in contemporary discourse. In addition to the main prize, Lorenci was honored with the Best Director award, while Gregor Luštek received recognition for choreography. Several actors were also acknowledged for their performances in King Lear, including Janez Škof, Timon Šturbej, and Mina Švajger. Notably, Marjuta Slamič and Ana Facchini were also honored for their roles in a 1973 production, with Facchini receiving another award for her appearance in Anhovo.

The festival also celebrated the contributions of emerging talent and innovative productions. The production Nafta was awarded the Tomáš Pandur Prize for outstanding visual vision, while the team behind Anhovo received recognition for their research and development of the script. This documentary drama, directed by Žiga Divjak, explored the tragic fate of communities in the Lower Soška Valley, drawing on real-life events. The production was also honored by the Society of Slovenian Theater Critics and Theorists for being the best production of the previous year. The festival’s director, Aleš Novak, emphasized that this year’s program once again demonstrated the artistic excellence and boldness of Slovenian theater, reaffirming its commitment to exploring the world we live in. He noted that the audience still believes in the power of theatrical encounters, underscoring the enduring significance of live performance in society.

Among the other notable recipients were Danilo Rošker, director of SNG Maribor, and the legendary writer Tone Partljič, who were honored for their contributions to Slovenian culture. The festival also highlighted the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration, with the production 1973 receiving special attention for its scenic design. Branko Hojnik, the set designer, created a dynamic and layered spatial narrative that blurred the lines between abstraction and hyperrealism, enhancing the emotional and thematic depth of the production. His work was recognized for its ability to integrate architectural elements into the theatrical space, creating a rich atmosphere that engaged both historical storytelling and contemporary issues.

The festival’s closing ceremony underscored the broader impact of Slovenian theater beyond mere entertainment. It served as a platform for critical engagement with societal challenges, offering nuanced perspectives on power, identity, and collective memory. The jury’s evaluation of the twelve competing plays confirmed that Slovenian theater remains a vibrant and socially responsive art form. As the festival drew to a close, it reinforced the notion that theater continues to play a crucial role in shaping public discourse and fostering meaningful dialogue. With its blend of tradition and innovation, the 61st Festival Borštnikovo Srečanje reaffirmed the strength and creativity of Slovenia’s theatrical community, setting a high standard for future endeavors.