"The Night Written in Red", a documentary performance on courage and freedom in Parliament Square
On Friday evening, a large crowd gathered in the Parliament Square to attend the documentary performance The Night Written in Red—directed by Luminița Țâcu—which brings back into the public eye the story of two young women who defied the Soviet totalitarian regime and, on the night of October 1, 1970, left over 40 slogans across Chișinău.
The performance, presented by actors from the "Teatrul Fără Nume", follows the lives of Lilia Neagu and Asa Andruh, exploring themes of the courage to think freely, resistance, and the price of liberty during a time when the collapse of the Soviet Union seemed unimaginable.
The event drew the show's protagonists, Parliament Speaker Igor Grosu, Minister of Culture Dan Suruceanu, Members of Parliament, personalities from the arts and culture sectors, educators, young people, and the general public.
"There is such modesty and strength in their example—a lesson for us all. We must understand our past and build our future in freedom and democracy. We have transformed the Parliament square—previously somewhat dull—into a space for beauty, theatre, and concerts," noted Parliament Speaker Igor Grosu.
Minister of Culture Dan Suruceanu, for his part, highlighted the performance's role in reflecting a significant chapter of recent history.
"Thanks to the artists' impeccable performances, we had the opportunity to unravel the threads of history and witness a sad yet instructive chapter—one that teaches us to be true citizens," Dan Suruceanu said.
"The Night Written in Red" tells the story of Lilia Neagu and Asa Andruh, two young women who, in 1970, resorted to protest against the Soviet regime. On the night of October 1, they left over 40 slogans in various locations across Chișinău.
In recognition of its contribution to preserving and honoring historical memory and to promoting democratic values, dignity, and freedom, the "Teatrul Fără Nume" was awarded the First-Class Diploma of the Parliament of the Republic of Moldova.
The event concluded the series of activities organized by Parliament in September to mark the International Day of Democracy. At the same time, the performance is part of a series of events dedicated to commemorating tragic moments in the history of the Republic of Moldova: the 85th anniversary of the first wave of Stalinist deportations and the 80th anniversary of the onset of the orchestrated famine.
The performance aims to preserve historical memory and promote freedom, human dignity, and democratic values. According to a statement from the Legislature, understanding the past fosters an appreciation for the value of freedom and helps build a society that respects fundamental rights and freedoms.
The event was organized by the Parliament of the Republic of Moldova in partnership with the Ministry of Culture and the "Teatrul Fără Nume" of the "Ginta Latină" Culture and Art Center. Admission was free to the public.
