Scenography for The Dead River (Lumi i vdekur)

Albanian National Theatre – 1972

Based on the novel by: Jakov Xoxa
Dramatization: Kudret Velça
Director: Drita Agolli
Scenography: Agim Zajmi and Fatbardh Marku
Composer: Limoz Dizdari
Television Direction: Albert Minga
Medium: Tempera on canvas
Dimensions: 70 × 45 cm

First staged at the Albanian National Theatre in 1972, The Dead River (Lumi i vdekur) brought together leading actors of the People’s Theatre, including Reshat Arbana, Robert Ndrenika, Margarita Xhepa, Roza Anagnosti, Besa Imami, and Roland Trebicka, among others.

In this production, Agim Zajmi transformed Jakov Xoxa’s naturalist drama into a powerful visual metaphor. The scenography is structured around a monumental wheel-like form evoking the weight of destiny and the relentless struggle of rural life. The horizontal expanse of the stage suggests the vast plains of Myzeqe, while sparse vertical elements intensify the atmosphere of desolation.

Through sculptural lighting and strong chiaroscuro contrasts, Zajmi creates a dramatic environment in which space becomes an active narrative force. Preserved in the National Gallery of Arts of Albania, this work stands as a significant example of modern Albanian scenography and its ability to elevate social realism into a universal visual language.