Tonight, the play “Gospoda Glembajevi” was supposed to be performed at the National Theatre in Belgrade by the Montenegrin National Theatre. But the drama moved off the stage and into real life – the director of the play, Danilo Marunović, was detained this morning around 9 AM by the Security Intelligence Agency (BIA) in Belgrade and then deported from Serbia! Yes, you read that right – the man who came to bring culture and freedom of thought, speech, and performance ended up targeted by state security services.
According to the Montenegrin National Theatre, Marunović was detained while staying in a hotel room for the play’s guest performance. His father, actor Slobodan Marunović, confirmed to Montenegrin media that his son was deported after questioning.
This situation raises serious questions about artistic freedom and regional cultural cooperation. The Montenegrin National Theatre clearly stated it remains committed to professionalism and good theatrical practice, but this is a blow to freedom of expression.
Imagine – an artist who comes to present a work is stopped and kicked out of the country! Is this the new trend in the region? Is freedom of speech just an empty phrase on paper?
This story is not just about one director or one play. It’s an alarm for all of us who believe in art as a space for freedom and dialogue. If artists are afraid to come and express their ideas, what’s left for us?
If you have thoughts on this scandal or maybe a sarcastic comment, feel free to share – because this isn’t just about theatre, it’s about our shared freedom. Maybe your voice will be the one to wake people up on this issue.
