Sexual accusation by an actress against a director: A story from the world of Moldovan theater
For the first time in the world of Moldovan theater, Moldova faced a situation where an actress accuses a director of sexual harassment. This director from Lithuania had already had a similar experience in his native country, by court decision. The events unfolded after he arrived in Moldova as a refugee. The accusations were made against Linas Zaikauskas, 61 years old, who conducted work in local theaters and resigned after accusations from part of the troupe. However, as it turns out, there is a more serious accusation – of sexual harassment.
The actress, whose name has been changed to *Nicoleta, recounted how in individual rehearsals with the director she was asked to perform sexual acts, which she declined. The director also suggested that she act like she was in love with him in order to better act out an erotic scene. Speaking to Free Europe, the director denied the allegations, suggesting that they may be due to the reluctance of actors who did not get the desired roles in the performances.
