Since the dawn of humanity, violence – physical or verbal – has been an inseparable component of human relationships, serving as an instinctive response to threat, disagreements or power dynamics. For a long time, physical violence was considered a legitimate and effective solution in conflicts, but the development of society – toward laws, education, rule of law and empathy – has significantly changed this perception, expressing ever more clearly: violence – both physical and emotional – is unacceptable. However, in this civilisation narrative, a deeply rooted illusion about victory persists. In struggles, regardless of their form, the so-called winner often receives central attention. But this victory is often only a momentary observation, never final. The “loser” rises, gathers strength and responds. This dynamic creates an endless, exhausting and essentially meaningless cycle. Society, repeatedly constructing winners and losers, continues to repeat the same mistake – believing that someone will win.

“The water roared in sullen waves” is the last sentence at the legendary Latvian epos Lāčplēsis. Where Lāčplēsis and the Black Knight fall into the river Daugava, and their fight at the bottom of the river continues there for eternity. In this performance, two actors embody this eternal fight. Two bodies that slam into each other, slam each other to the ground, and on the sofa become a powerful symbol for the violence and its hopelessness. The fight sees no end and the fighters are caught in an endless cycle of winning and losing.

The performance is intended for audiences aged 12 and over.

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