An undeniable convergence. Natalia Lesz transforms herself into a reflection of Wisława Szymborska in latest play with Szapołowska

It turns out that Natalia Lesz has not been paired with our Nobel Prize winner before. However, Katarzyna Jungowska recognised a double of Wisława Szymborska in her and invited her to take part in the performance ‘Wisława-Grażyna’, which had its debut two days before the poet’s 100th birthday anniversary. Lesz recorded the multimedia parts that serve as a backdrop for Grażyna Szapołowska’s recitation of the poems.

Natalia Lesz is surprisingly reminiscent of Wisława Szymborska

The Super Express portal asked Natalia Lesz whether she really sees a physical resemblance to the author of such works as “Nic dwa razy” (Nothing Twice) or “Kot w pustym mieszkaniu” (A Cat in an Empty Apartment).

It would never occur to me that I could resemble Wisława Szymborska. However, I am charmed that I could participate in this project together with Grażyna and Kasia. It was quite a challenge for me, but also a great honour. I hope that I managed to convey at least a little of the truth that was in Wisława. She was an extraordinary woman – on the one hand, she radiated brilliance, and on the other, she was characterised by incredible modesty and a sense of humour and distance to herself.

Grażyna Szapołowska appeared in the theatre premiere of “Wisława-Grażynie” after only five rehearsals!

After a decade off, Grażyna Szapolowska returned to the theatre stage. When asked about her experience of the performance, she replied:

Kasia conducted five rehearsals, during which she showed me how a poem should be recited. At the same time she came up with an ingenious idea to make Szymborska be with us, that is, to make her present and alive when her voice comes from the screen.

This is what Grażyna Szapołowska said to “Super Express”. She also referred to the poet’s poem `Nothing Twice’, and admits that the same performance will be different every time, as actors can experience extreme emotions.

We can interpret everything differently every time. It’s the same with any acting role. If an actor is having a worse day, or has experienced something different in his life, he starts to transfer that to the stage during the interpretation.