“Lennart. Pöördtooliaastad” (The turbulent years of Lennart Meri), the play by Jaak Jõerüüt, deals with the former President of Estonia Lennart Meris pivotal first years in office. Jaak Jõerüüt is a writer, former diplomat, and close associate of Lennart Meri. Lennart Meris first years of presidency were like running a political start-up, when the future of the position of Estonia on the worlds political map was being forged. Lennarts, intelligence, political instinct, and ambition were extraordinary. It was not always easy to work side-by side with him, but every second of it was unique and memorable. Lennart was a living example of a man who, while coming from a tiny state, became a world-class politician and an internationally widely respected head of the state.
The cost of rebuilding the Republic of Estonia was emotionally exceptionally high, but 30 years later, when we evaluate history, we can only rejoice – this is exactly the kind of country we wanted. Round-the-clock work as the President of Estonia took its emotional toll involving tears, stress, and many moments of serious introspection. The author of the play, Jaak Jõerüüt, who worked closely with President Meri, clearly remembers the beginning of his presidency, and depicts it in his play consisting of seven episodes.
Play by Jaak Jõerüüt
Directed by: Karl Laumets
Set design: Eva Maria Põldmäe
Video: Herkki Erich Merila and René Reinumägi
Light: Rene Liivamägi
Sound design: Robert Jürjendal
Costumes: Antonio Lätt
Technical production: Siim Sareal (Viimsi Artium)
