Since 1957, the Konjic theatre drama group has been active in the town, not only entertaining the locals, but also preserving Slovenian culture, language and local heritage.
The group was born out of a genuine love for the stage, acting and art. Its members included a wide variety of people - teachers, shopkeepers, workers, housewives and young enthusiasts - all with a sparkle in their eyes and courage in their hearts. Among them was Lidija, a young pianist with long fingers and a warm and cheerful smile. The piano was her world, the stage her second home. When she slid her fingers over the keys, the whole hall fell silent. Her music became the soul of every performance.
The Konjiška group did not only perform classical plays and comedies by Slovenian or foreign authors. What made them special was that they knew how to connect art with their environment. The characters in the plays often represented real Konjice inhabitants - shushters, tavern-keepers, peasant rebels and wise grandmothers. The performances were witty, sincere and full of warmth. The children laughed at the funny sketches, while the older ones recognised bits of their youth in the scenes.
Lidija has worked with the group for many years. Her friends say that she brings a piece of her soul to every exercise. "When Lidija played, you felt that you were there - at a country fete, an old inn or a village dance. She was our film soundtrack, but live," recalls one former actress with a smile.
The group has had its ups and downs over the years. But after each fall, they picked themselves up, because they knew that the people of Konjice needed culture - not only for fun, but also as a mirror and inspiration. A few years ago, they put on a special performance called Vassovalcibased on the old customs of betrothal and falling in love in the village. The performance was full of humour, emotion and authenticity. There was no entrance fee - visitors could make voluntary contributions. The purpose? To help socially disadvantaged children in Slovenske Konjice. And they succeeded - they raised enough funds to provide the children with school supplies, trips and clothes.
"We have always played for the people. And always for a reason," said the older actress at the end of the show. That was the last time Lidija performed live - as tender and heartfelt as ever.
Today, the group is no longer as active as it once was, but its spirit lives on - in memories, photographs and, above all, in the hearts of the people who laughed, cried and grew up watching its performances. Perhaps one day a new generation will step on stage again and play in the name of all that their ancestors created. As long as memory lives, the stage will live.
Zala Krupljan, 10. 6. 2025
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