INTERVIEW // “I was amazed by the artistic world through its mysterious and sober aspect.” Laurențiu Ghelas – the best male actor at the 2024 edition of the “OSTENDE” Municipal Youth Theatre Festival  

Every year, the Chisinau Municipal Youth Center of the General Directorate of Education, Youth and Sport under the aegis of the Chisinau City Hall organizes the Municipal Youth Theatre Festival “OSTENDE”. Young men and women and theater art groups have the opportunity to demonstrate their passion and acting skills by presenting a performance on the stage of the National Theater “Satiricus Ion Luca Caragiale” in Chisinau.

Laurențiu Ghelas stood out among the talented young actors who took the stage at last year’s edition. The young actor conquered the jury and the audience with an exceptional performance and was awarded the prize for best male actor.

Read more about his success, work and admiration for theater in the interview below.

When and how was your first step into the world of theater?

“The passion for theater is often born from an intense emotion that leaves a deep imprint on the soul. I took my first step into the world of theater at the age of 7, when I went to the theater and was amazed by the artistic world and the theater itself, by its mysterious and sober appearance. It was a discovery that deeply marked me and, without fully understanding it at the time, set me on a path that I would later follow with passion and dedication.”

What motivated you to take part in the “OSTENDE” Festival and what did this experience mean to you?

“Some opportunities arise when we are guided by inspirational mentors. Participating in the “OSTENDE” Festival was a challenge I accepted thanks to the encouragement of my acting teacher, as I was in a theater class. The experience I had meant more than any stage performance I have had so far. It was a time of growth, exposure to new artistic perspectives and confirmation that theater is truly my path.”

What can you tell us about the role that won you the award for Best Actor in a Leading Actor?

“An exceptional role is one that challenges the actor to a deep exploration, an emotional and psychological transformation. The role that I played is sublime and very revolting. The ‘The Fixer’, a character of fanatical and sick perfection, for whom the world is a huge machine factory, challenged me to understand a way of thinking that is alien to any humanity. It was a role that required a lot of analysis of behavior, facial expressions and body language, but most of all a deep introspection of his psychology. It was a lot of hard work, but the award validated every effort.”

In what way has winning this award marked you?

“Awards are a spur for artistic evolution and empowerment. Getting this award has given me more courage and determination. It was a confirmation that my efforts are appreciated and that I must continue to be actively involved in different theatrical activities. It helped me to gain even more self-confidence and to see theater not just as a passion but as an artistic mission.”

What are your plans for your future in theater?

“For an actor, the future is an open scenario, full of possibilities. I plan to continue to develop in the theatrical sphere, but also make the step into film. I think film can offer me other means of expression, other artistic challenges, and I want to explore this dimension of art. For now it is just a future plan, but I am determined to make it a reality.”

This year’s OSTENDE Festival is coming up. What advice do you have for the young actors who will participate?

“Festivals are great opportunities for artistic growth and affirmation. I would tell young actors to be confident in what they do, to have attitude and not to forget that through theater you educate and grow values. It is important to be consistent, to work with passion and not to be afraid to step out of their comfort zone. A true actor is more than just talent, it is discipline, endurance and courage.”

Laurentiu Ghelas’ story is an example of dedication and passion for the art of theater. With clear plans for the future and a desire to evolve, Laurentiu sees theater as a place of continuous growth, and the stage, whether theatrical or cinematic, remains the place where dreams come to life.