We have always needed a spiritual compass and we have had one going back in history. They have been our starting point to which we have walked.
This is what the actor Irinei Konstantinov said in an interview with BNR.
He performs the role of the Heavenly Protector of Bulgaria – St. John of Rila, in the Sofia Opera and Ballet's spectacle "The Hermit of Rila".
The musical poem will be presented on the open stage of the St. Alexander Nevsky Square on 26, 27 and 28 July.
"There is a need for such a spiritual leader to appear now. And whether that will happen, I have no idea. Will we go after him, will we turn to him, will we accept him? But may he lead us on this holy path, like St. John of Rila and all the saints," said the actor.
The production "The Hermit of Rila" is based on music by Father Kiril Popov and text by Tihomir Pavlov.
"It is a huge challenge to perform this role because it is not every day that you get to play the saint of Bulgaria. It's not important what form the performance takes, the important thing is to have actors on stage and an audience, to get the interaction. There is a certain madness, challenge and something very holy in this work", commented Irinei Konstantinov.
According to him, what is most valuable in "The Hermit of Rila" are the messages of the music and the text.
"This spectacle should be watched by the young and these messages should reach them and be commented with them afterwards. The messages should reach every heart that is religious and believing, for whom these names mean something," the actor asserted.
Listen to the full interview in the audio file.