Film about Haralds Sīmanis

The latest film by director Dzintra Geka is a poetry of life and departure. It tells the story of a man who did not fit into systems but embodied freedom in music, life, and silence. “When I met Haralds Sīmanis, it became clear that he was not just a troubadour. He embodied a worldview in human form. Quiet, modest, and at the same time with deep inner strength. His presence naturally drew attention with its truthfulness and with music that seemed to come from nature, from the earth, from wood, from the depths of a lake,” says the film’s author.

 

The film documents Haralds Sīmanis’ final years: his anniversary concert, his friendship with sound engineer Māris Āboliņš, his garden paradise near a social apartment in Ārona, and his last public performance in Ziemeļblāzma Park. All of this is permeated by the poignant awareness that life was drawing to a close.

 

Throughout the film, as in life, Haralds is seen with his guitar — the instrument he once called his “sounding stick.” It accompanied him during military service, at concerts, and in everyday work.

 

Haralds Sīmanis was a unique and unforgettable voice in Latvia’s cultural space. He was an artist of self-expression who, through his singing and music, crossed the boundaries of time, politics, and genre. A musician whose songs combined protest, spirituality, and soul’s openness. Following in his father’s footsteps, he also became a tinsmith and roofer. He spent much time repairing and restoring church roofs and towers, where he eventually learned to play the organ.

Tickets are available through The Embassy of Latgale GORS online ticket system and at the box office.

 

Translated using AI, if you spot any mistakes in the translation feel free to write us an e-mail (gors.vestis [at] rezekne.lv) highlighting the mistake.