In 2027, not only will Liepāja hold the title of European Capital of Culture, but so too will the Portuguese city of Évora. To celebrate this cultural partnership, families attending the Sea Festival are invited to experience a performance by Évora-based puppeteer, creator, and researcher Manuel Costa Dias, titled “Puppets of My Life”.
The performances will take place on Saturday, 12 July, at 12:00, 14:00, 16:00, and 17:00, in Seaside Park near Daugava Stadium, within the “Brīnumu viļņi” (Waves of Wonder) zone.
For Manuel, puppetry is more than just an art, it is an extension of his life’s journey. Through his craftsmanship and masterful manipulation, he breathes life into his creations, enabling them to convey profound and heartfelt emotions. “Puppets of My Life” is a deeply personal reflection on his more than four decades dedicated to exploring the depths of puppet construction and movement.
With expert precision, the puppeteer animates his figures, transforming them into living storytellers who transport his young audiences through fragments of life’s joys, dreams, and inspirations. The performance runs for approximately 25 minutes, attendance is free of charge.
With his puppets and performance “Puppets of My Life”, maestro Dias has travelled worldwide, earning multiple international awards, including accolades for best artistic performance and best animation. Since its premiere in 2009, the show has delighted spectators across Spain, Kazakhstan, Indonesia, China, Romania, and beyond.
The event is brought to the Sea Festival by the Liepāja 2027 Foundation, in collaboration with the Liepāja Culture Department. The event is supported by the Liepāja City Municipality, the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Latvia, and “Lux Express”, the largest bus transport company in the Baltic region.
As part of the “Liepāja – European Capital of Culture 2027” programme, the Liepāja Symphony Orchestra continues its summer musical journey across South Kurzeme.
The Liepāja Culture Department has announced the second cultural project competition of 2026, inviting applications for financial support for the implementation of significant, unique and traditional cultural projects in Liepāja. Applications can be submitted until 24 August.
The project “Atmospheric Waves” is looking for original concepts and ideas for sound artworks that would respond to wind and climate conditions in Liepaja, on the West Coast of Latvia. The competition is open for applications until September 4, 2026.