“Grimmaces” is a new contemporary circus performance inspired by the first, uncensored edition of the Brothers Grimm fairy tales. Dark, physical, and playful, the project marks the beginning of the creative process for a full-length stage work, with its premiere scheduled for 2026.
The performance is co-produced by Kanta Company and Teatronas. The creative team includes performers Gabrielle Emilly Aidulis, Kęstas Matusevičius, and Aino Mäkipää, director and dramaturge Gildas Aleksa, and composer Jokūbas Tulaba.
In late 2025, the artists participated in a residency at Dynamo Workspace (Denmark) — one of Europe’s leading performing arts residency centers. During the residency, the performers, composer, and director presented a work-in-progress to the public, offering audiences an early glimpse into the developing material and creative direction of “Grimmaces”.
Reflecting on the process, performer Aino Mäkipää highlights the importance of this early sharing and space for research, training, and reflection:
“The first week felt rushed, but it was exciting to present something so early and experience the audience engaging with the text live. The second week was calmer. I could focus deeply, even though we were quite tired — it reminded us how important balance between work and rest is.”
Dynamo Workspace itself left a strong impression on the team:
“It’s probably the best in Europe — created by artists, with a rare combination of calmness and productivity. Coming from a country without residency centers, it makes you wish for a place like this at home.”
“Grimmaces” continues its development toward its premiere in 2026.
Teatronas activities are financed by the Lithuanian Council for Culture, the premiere is co-financed by the Vilnius City Municipality, the project “Grimmaces” has received funding from the Nordic Council of Ministers’ Culture and Art Programme.
Gallery by Cosmin Cirstea from Dynamo
