Remembering Mirush Kabashi: one year after the loss of Albania’s legendary actor

One year ago, the renowned Albanian actor and theater artist, Mirush Kabashi, passed away, leaving a lasting mark on the country’s cultural landscape. Known for his immense contribution to both theater and cinema, Kabashi’s death on December 5, 2023, marked the end of an era in Albanian performing arts.

A life of artistic legacy  

Born on April 17, 1948, in Shkodër and raised in Durrës, Mirush Kabashi hailed from a family originally from Gjakova. His career spanned decades and saw him take on approximately 100 roles across stage and screen. He is also celebrated as one of the foremost interpreters of Albanian poetry.

Kabashi’s journey in the arts began in 1970 when he graduated in acting from the Institute of Fine Arts in Tirana. He began his professional career at the Aleksandër Moisiu Theater in Durrës, where he worked for over two decades. From 1991 to 1993, he also held the role of theater director. In 1994, he transitioned to work with Albanian Television, where he contributed as an ideator and presenter for the artistic programming department. From 2002 onward, Kabashi continued to be a vital presence at the National Theater of Albania. He was also a passionate educator, teaching acting at the Academy of Arts from 1985 onwards.

Among his many stage roles, Kabashi is perhaps best known for his portrayal of Socrates in The Last Apology of Socrates, a performance often regarded as the pinnacle of his career. 

Honoring an icon

Throughout his life, Kabashi was honored with several prestigious titles, including “Nderi i Kombit” (Honor of the Nation), “Artist i Merituar” (Merited Artist), and “Mjeshtër i Madh i Punës” (Great Master of Work). Following his death, his contributions have continued to be acknowledged by both local and national institutions. 

In a tribute held by the Aleksandër Moisiu Theater in Durrës, Emiriana Sako, the Mayor of Durrës, posthumously awarded Kabashi the title “Honorary Citizen of Durrës”. Additionally, the City of Tirana decided to honor his legacy by renaming the Theater at the Artificial Lake Park after him.

Celebrating his memory  

To commemorate the first anniversary of his passing, a series of events are being organized today, December 5, 2024, in his honor. Among the highlights will be a photographic exhibition titled “Between theater and film”, showcasing Kabashi’s remarkable career. The event will also include the promotion of the book “Mirush Kabashi: The Albanian Socrates” by Driada Dervishi, as well as the premiere of the documentary film “100 Masks, 1 Soul” at the University of Arts’ Grand Hall at 7:00 PM.

The documentary, directed by Eliodor Markja, presents a visual journey through Kabashi’s artistic life, with photos curated by Elvin Shytaj. The event is part of a broader effort to preserve and celebrate the legacy of an artist who shaped Albanian theater and film for generations.