The Center for Opening and Dialogue, in celebration of International Teachers’ Day, presents in “Spotlight on Personalities” the teacher and author of scientific books, Mr. Niko Face.

The aim of this project is to bring attention to the activities of professionals from various fields who have made significant contributions to art, culture, literature, journalism, sports, and more. This initiative seeks to provide a source of inspiration and success for students by discussing challenges, difficulties, perseverance, and hard work.

Date: October 5
Time: 12:00 PM
Location: “Thimi Mitko” Library, Korçë

EDITED by:

“KORÇA BOOM”

Piro Xëci was born in Pogradec in 1927. From a young age, his artistic inclinations were evident. After the country’s liberation, a widespread amateur artistic and sports movement emerged among the youth. The city established theater groups where Piro began participating, contributing to stage preparations and also acting as an extra. Recognizing his talents as a performer, he was sent to a long-term course at the People’s Theatre for directing animation troupes, graduating in 1948. His desire and passion for acting remained strong, leading him to become active as an actor at the city’s Amateur Theatre. In 1962, the Professional Estrada of Pogradec was formed, where Piro Xëci would serve as its director.

For many years, the city’s Estrada gained a notable reputation nationwide, receiving awards and maximum accolades. Piro Xëci also played a significant role in establishing the Puppet Theatre in Pogradec. Despite his commitments in the estrada and theatre, Piro also had a passion for puppetry. In 1952, a small group of performing arts enthusiasts in Pogradec created the core of the Puppet Theatre. Piro served as the director, actor, set designer, and puppeteer, achieving success not only in the city but also beyond.

In the 1970s, the Ministry of Education decided to establish the Pogradec Puppet Theatre as an independent institution, appointing Piro Xëci as its director. He was simultaneously the set designer, puppeteer, and often the librettist. Piro remained with the Puppet Theatre until his retirement but continued to be involved afterward. For his merits and contributions, he holds the title of “Merited Artist” and has been honored several times, also being declared an “Honorary Citizen.” Piro Xëci has also been seen involved in several feature films, such as “When a Film Was Being Shot” and “After Death.” Today, the Puppet Theatre in the city bears the esteemed name of Piro Xëci.

EDITED by: “KORÇA BOOM”

Vasillaq Vangjeli: A Tribute to a Beloved Actor

Vasillaq Vangjeli, born on February 19, 1948, passed away on September 26, 2011, after struggling with diabetes. With over 45 years on stage, he played more than 100 roles in theater, film, and estrade.

Biography

In his third year of medical studies, Vangjeli left to enroll in the Institute of Fine Arts (1973-1975). After graduating, he began his internship at the theater. He transitioned from the People’s Theater to the State Estrade as a comedic actor, working there from 1976 until April 1, 2005.

Artistic Life

For approximately 45 years, Vangjeli captivated hundreds of thousands of spectators with his keen intuition and admirable spontaneity, becoming one of the most beloved artists, particularly in the field of humor. He was a significant figure in the Tirana Estrade, participating in nearly all premieres.

Known for his wide range, vocal talent, and sense of humor, Vangjeli was a tragic-comic actor with profound artistic qualities. His innate talent for humor shone through in his performances. Despite initially facing challenges in finding work after graduating from the Academy of Arts, he was determined to act at the National Theater, successfully securing a role in the drama “Lëvizja” directed by Pirro Mani.

However, party directives led him to the Tirana Estrade, where he had to navigate a challenging transition. Although he was reluctant, he ultimately became an integral part of the theater community, demonstrating resilience and dedication.

Vangjeli’s journey reflects the complexities of an artist’s life in the evolving landscape of Albanian theater, leaving a lasting legacy that continues to inspire future generations.

Initially, the Estrade didn’t embrace him; he worked without enthusiasm or focus, often missing work and delivering lackluster performances. However, he eventually formed a deep connection with the Estrade, humor, instruments, and parodies that is hard to explain. The Estrade became the platform where he showcased his creative energy and ethical values, fulfilling his acting dreams.

His contributions are evident in the numerous roles he interpreted, totaling over 100 in estrade, theater, and film. Audiences remember him for characters like Koçi the groom in “Zonja nga qyteti,” the rooster in “Një gjel në qymez,” the boastful man afraid of the cow’s bellow in “Një mburravec që ka frikë nga pëllitja e lopës,” and tragic-comic Lolo in “Dordoleci” and “Donkishoti.”

His diverse roles in Estrade included performances in the vaudeville comedy “Mirelo,” as Xhixh, and in sketches and parodies. At the time, he was involved in the comedy “HARVEY,” directed by Hervin Çuli. He continued to receive offers, including one from the National Theater.

Now, Vangjeli is no longer a professional actor affiliated with any institution. He retired, like many of his colleagues from the Tirana Estrade, transforming his home into a place of entertainment for friends and fellow actors. Even in this setting, he continues to share humor through jokes and stories, saying it’s “part of the profession.”

Thus, Vasillaq’s life continues, and he remains a vibrant presence in the market economy, sharing his unique humor with everyone around him.

EDITED by:

“KORÇA BOOM”

So, on the birthday of Luan Zhegu, we celebrate the 75th anniversary of a legend of Albanian music. With a long and successful career, he has left a deep mark on our culture, becoming a symbol of art and passion for music. His unforgettable voice has touched the hearts of many generations and brought joy to the lives of many people.

Luan Zhegu has brought a wide range of songs, from love ballads to folk songs, which are well-known and beloved by all. His contribution to Albanian music is extraordinary and will continue to inspire young artists.

Today, we wish for this day to be filled with happiness and success. Cheers, maestro! Here’s to another 100 years of music and love!

EDITED by:

“KORÇA BOOM”

Today we commemorate the 104th anniversary of the birth of People’s Artist Marie Logoreci! Tribute and respect for her figure!

Marie Logoreci (1920-1988) was a prominent theater actress born in Shkodër on September 23. She began her artistic career in 1940 as a singer and later joined amateur theater groups. In 1947, she became a professional actress at the People’s Theater, being among the first professional Albanian artists. She played the role of Elmira in Molière’s comedy “Tartuffe,” showcasing her dramatic talent.

In 1949, she portrayed Alice in the drama “Deep Roots,” and in 1950, she played Fatime in “Halili and Hajria” by Kolë Jakova. She gained recognition for her role as Loka in “Our Land” (1954) by K. Jakova, directed by Pandi Stillu, which she later reprised in the film adaptation in 1964.

Her portrayal of a mother suffering from past injustices captured the audience, presenting a proud and resilient woman fighting to restore her dignity. In the first Albanian short film, “Her Children” (1957), she played Fatime and delivered a memorable performance as Ledi Milford in Schiller’s “Intrigue and Love,” directed by Mihal Luarasi.

In 1961, Logoreci shone in the role of Bernarda Alba in “The House of Bernarda Alba” by F. G. Lorca, depicting the stern Spanish woman grappling with societal prejudices and patriarchal tyranny. In Shakespeare’s “Hamlet” (1960), she interpreted Gertrude, reflecting on moral decay and regret.

In “Përkoligjinajt” (1967) by K. Jakova, she portrayed Mara, embodying the struggles of the patriarchal family, and in “Cuca e Maleve” (1967) by Loni Papa, she created another poignant maternal figure, Prenda.

Her notable performance as Gjela in “The Great Flood” (1976) further demonstrated her ability to convey the emotional weight of her characters. Logoreci’s acting was characterized by authenticity, depth, and a warm emotional resonance with the audience. She excelled in portraying complex, resilient female characters, earning her the title “People’s Artist.”

Marie Logoreci passed away on June 19, 1988, in Tirana.

EDITED by:

“KORÇA BOOM”

The legend and former boxer from Korça, Dhori Gërnjoti, passed away on May 18, 2010, at the age of 67 after a serious illness. A renowned figure in Albanian boxing, Dhori began boxing at the age of 14 in a youth team established by his father.

His first match took place in 1958 when he was only 15, and he lost to the Shkodran boxer Viktor Martini. However, this would be his first and last defeat. In 1959, Dhori and his brother were crowned champions of the First Spartakiad in Tirana, and in 1960, Dhori secured first place in his group at the national youth championship. Two years later, in 1962, he won the national championship for adults, defeating the famous boxer Daniel Vida in the final.

Dhori Gërnjoti’s brilliant boxing career and dreams were cut short in 1962 when he attempted to escape to Greece with three friends but was caught, leading to a harrowing experience in the prisons of the communist regime.

He was sentenced to 18 years in prison for treason against the homeland due to his attempted escape and served his sentence in Burrel prison. He attempted to escape again with some friends but could only breach the prison perimeter before being stopped by gunfire from the guards. In 1967, he was tried again and sentenced to death by firing squad, but this was later commuted to 25 years in prison. After serving 20 years, Dhori Gërnjoti was released in 1987.

In the early 1990s, he returned to the ring alongside the esteemed Ahmet Golemi in a symbolic match in the city of Korça, delivering unforgettable emotions to all fans and marking the revival of boxing in Albania.

EDITED by:

“KORÇA BOOM”