Choreographer Valentina Turcu reflects on her 'Spartan' upbringing and upcoming 'Othello' premiere

Valentina Turcu, a choreographer of international acclaim, is putting the finishing touches on the ballet "Othello" at the Croatian National Theatre (HNK) in Zagreb. The premiere, scheduled for June 26, is poised to be a major event, marking the closing of a successful season for the theater. Turcu, who was born in Zagreb, shared insights into her formative years and artistic journey during an interview amidst the bustling atmosphere of the HNK.

Surrounded by photographs of figures who shaped Croatian theater, Turcu spoke of her deep connection to the institution. "These are all my people, I grew up with them," she said, gently touching a photo of Špiro Guberina. Her parents, Maja Srbljenović Turcu, a celebrated Croatian ballerina, and Marin Turcu, an internationally recognized ballet principal, met and fell in love at the HNK Zagreb. Turcu herself is considered a child of the theater, a sentiment underscored by her extensive career, which includes 151 theater premieres.

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These are all my people, I grew up with them.

Reflecting on her upbringing, Turcu described her parents as having raised her in a "Spartan" manner. While acknowledging that this approach was not always easy, she expressed profound gratitude for it today. She believes their disciplined upbringing provided a strong foundation for her demanding career. Her upcoming premiere of "Othello" represents another significant milestone in a career marked by artistic achievement and a deep-rooted connection to the world of ballet and the Croatian National Theatre.

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My parents raised me Spartan, which wasn't always easy, but today I am endlessly grateful to them for it.