The National Theatre has noted the message conveyed by the provocative political performances following the two Lithuanian stage productions ("Between Lena's Legs..." and "Delhi Dance") at MITEM (Madách International Theatre Meeting) on 26 April 2022. Though aware of the plans, the National Theatre and MITEM's organisers respected the Lithuanian artists' freedom of expression. We continue to believe in the importance of dialogue based on mutual respect and understanding. We hope that our Lithuanian colleagues, having experienced the hospitality and tolerance of Hungary and the National Theatre, will be able to reciprocate with similar openness and friendship. It should be underlined that the Hungarian government and the Hungarian people are providing very significant financial, logistical and humanitarian assistance to hundreds of thousands of refugees of the war in Ukraine. In addition, the National Theatre organised a special Solidarity Day for Ukraine as part of MITEM, with the participation of Ukrainian artists. We regret that the Lithuanian companies have ignored this and presented a one-sided view of the attitude of Hungarians to this issue. Wishing them further creative success, we trust that their excellent artistic qualities will be combined with a clarity of vision.

(27 April 2022)