Petrika Riza, actor, was born in the village of Bulgarec, in the district of Korça. After graduating from the High Institute of Arts in 1969, specializing in drama, he began working as an assistant director at the Kinostudio “Shqipëria e Re” and then at the “AZ Çajupi” Theater in Korçë. He served as the director of this theater from 1998 to 2004. Petrika Riza is known for his dramatic acting, often with an epic tone and strong highlights. He portrayed a wide range of interesting characters from different social backgrounds, especially from rural and working-class communities, as well as intellectuals and officials. His tall stature, strong voice, calm demeanor, and confident stage presence, combined with his ability to evoke deep emotional states and a sense of restraint, made his performances highly appealing to audiences. Throughout his career, Riza played numerous roles, both supporting and leading, many of which stood out for their dramatic intensity: honest people, often deceived and suffering as a result, or complex characters facing internal conflict and difficult choices. In addition to his stage work, he appeared in 14 films, beginning with the role of Rustem in “I teti ne bronz” (Eighth on Bronze) (1970). In 2003, he was awarded the “Golden Naim Frashëri” medal by the Presidency of the Republic of Albania. (In the photo: Petrika Riza)
Text: Josif Papagjoni
Photo: © https://www.kinetografia-shqiptare-sporti.com/profil-i-aktorit-petrika-riza/
Graphic processing: AHCF
