It is complemented by Part One: Selected Theatre Criticisms
The two publications, which were published in the collection Documents of the Slovenian Theatre Institute under serial number 94, present a selection of critiques by the renowned and prolific writer Lojze Smask, born in 1928 in Maribor. The long-time journalist, journalist and art critic has been an important contributor to the cultural editorial pages of the daily newspaper Večer for four decades; he has monitored and evaluated domestic and foreign theatre productions, and from an early age he focused his critical attention on radio plays, establishing himself as one of the few who has dedicated his writing to this, to use the title of the symposium at the Borštnik Meeting 2016 Festival, "a vital genre on the edge of the media space".
With a selection of critiques that address theatrical creation in the broader sense of the word, the books represent a contribution to theatrical history, while Smasko's exceptionally comprehensive reflection on artistic production offers an opportunity for reflection on criticism.
"The critic and his criticism are an integral part of a theatrical performance. Without criticism, the performance is not complete, it is not rounded off. […]
The extensive book, actually two books, is the work of a man who dedicated his life to Slovenian theatre. He followed it with love and also with a vigilant critical eye. His notes offered theatregoers a reflection on their work and, if we are honest, also made a significant contribution to the development of theatre culture. To art that is made of dreams, which is mortal and fleeting like life, Lojze Smasek added a piece of his memory with his notes. Both books are both a personal reflection of art and also a record of a theatre time that is no longer there. " (From the foreword by Vinko Möderndorfer)
Editor: Ana Perne
Selection of reviews: Ana Gersak, Ana Perne
Professional help: Aleš Jan, Draga Puc, Vilma Štritof (RTV – Radio Slovenia, ARS Program)
Help in preparing the material: Ksenija Kaučič, Ana Marinšek
Name index: Melita Silic, Ana Perne
Proofreader: Melita Silic
Proofreader: Ana Marinšek
Design and preparation for printing: Nina Sturm
Cover photo: David Verlič / E-fronta
