Peteris Krilovs Soviet and Latvian theater and film director, teacher Date of Birth: 18.02.1949 Country: Latvia

1. Early Life and Education
2. Entry into the Film Industry
3. Theatrical Pursuits
4. Artistic Leadership and Pedagogy
5. Academic Career and Distinctions
6. Continued Success and Legacy
7. Personal Life

A Prolific Figure in Latvian Arts: The Life and Legacy of Viesturs Belasko

Early Life and Education

Viesturs Belasko was born on February 18, 1949, in Riga, Latvia. His father, Osvalds Belaskalns, was convicted of anti-Soviet activities in 1951, while his mother, Nina Krylova, was a teacher and later became an editor.

Belasko completed his secondary education at Riga's 47th School in 1966. He then pursued his passion for filmmaking at the All-Union State Institute of Cinematography in Moscow, graduating in 1975.

Entry into the Film Industry

Belasko's foray into the film industry began with a stint as a props master and assistant director at the Riga Film Studio. In 1976, he was appointed as a film director, a position he held until 1990.

His graduation project, the short film "Andra," was based on a story by Regina Ezera. This marked the beginning of a successful career in filmmaking.

Theatrical Pursuits

In addition to his cinematic pursuits, Belasko also made a significant contribution to Latvian theater. From 1984 to 1986, he taught actor and directorial classes at the People's Studio for Film Actors.

Artistic Leadership and Pedagogy

From 1988 to 1993, Belasko served as Artistic Director of the Daugavpils Theater, where he also mentored students in his acting studio. His artistic leadership continued as Artistic Director of the theater from 1994 to 1996.

Over the years, Belasko directed plays at renowned venues such as the National Theater, the National Opera, the Liepāja Theater, and the Valmiera Theater.

Academic Career and Distinctions

Belasko's involvement in the arts extended to academia. He became an Associate Professor and lecturer at the Latvian Academy of Culture in 1994. In 1995, he was appointed Director of the international theater festival "Homo Novus."

Continued Success and Legacy

In 1998, Belasko became a founding member and member of the board of directors of the Latvian Institute of New Theater. His contributions to both theater and film earned him the prestigious "Big Kristaps" award for the documentary film "Between Heaven and Earth" in 1994.

Personal Life

Belasko was married to sculptor Timiāna Munkevica, the creator of the "Boys of Valmiera" monument.