In an uprising on a farm, a group of animals overthrow their farmer’s tyrannical reign. Little by little, their new society begins to mirror human civilisation, and their original principles of equality are cast aside.
Animal Farm, based on George Orwell’s famous novel, was first performed in Amsterdam in the spring of 2023, quickly earning acclaim from audiences and critics alike. This impactful opera is an experience unlike anything seen before at the Finnish National Opera.
Isfåglarna is the most recent opera composed by Olli Kortekangas and it tells the myth of the demigod Alkyone and king Keyx, their love and trials.
Earthrise depicts a world where political and religious forces struggle for influence, while the scientific process reveals uncomfortable truths. The piece is based on Johannes Kepler’s science fiction novel The Dream (posthumously published in 1634) and the astronomer’s life. Directed by librettist Aleksi Barrière, the musical theater production combines 17th-century repertoire with genre-bending new music created by composer Juha T. Koskinen and vocal artist Anni Elif Egecioglu.
The dancers of the Finnish National Ballet will take on a dual role as choreographers, as the Ballet Workshop returns to Almi Hall after a long wait! The workshop evening is all about contemporary pieces created and produced by the dancers of the Finnish National Ballet themselves, delivering a multifaceted experience of varying themes, visuals, and dance styles.
The young dancers’ evening of the Finnish National Ballet offers a captivating mix of the classic and contemporary. The highlight of the evening is the premiere of German choreographer Marco Goecke’s Blushing, the winner of the 2003 Prix Dom Pérignon, which was originally created for the Stuttgart Ballet. In addition to Blushing, the evening features excerpts of the ballet La Bayadère, and select contemporary dance pieces.
In Opera & Ballet in Action workshops, 5 to 6 years olds can experience the fascinating world of opera and ballet. Participants learn about a selected Main Stage production through hands-on activities, such as arts and crafts, making music, dancing, and drama. In addition to learning about different art forms, the children get to make a nice souvenir to take home. The workshops last approximately 1.5 hours and are held in Finnish.
In autumn 2024, The Orchestra of the Finnish National Opera (FNO) will enchant audiences at Musiikkitalo with the launch of a new, unique concert series. Concertgoers will be treated to gems of orchestral music and vocal performances by leading names from around the world. The programme reflects the full variety of life and human emotions.
In October, it’s time for dance as Ballet Finland celebrates its 15th anniversary at the Almi Hall. The evening will feature three contemporary dance works, crafted by Finland’s leading choreographers. In addition to world premieres of Hanna Brotherus and Johanna Nuutinen’s pieces, Kenneth Kvarnström will showcase a revised version of his beloved Carmen?!.
Tuomo Railo’s acclaimed contemporary dance work The Bach Project will have its rerun in Alminsali in autumn 2024. The Bach Project is a choreography for eight dancers. The piece features J.S. Bach’s Goldberg Variations interpreted by pianist Risto Lauriala.
An August evening beckons you to enjoy a nocturnal adventure in the moonlight, as Tapiola Hall in Espoo echoes with Arnold Schoenberg’s Verklärte Nacht (Transfigured Night) and Alexander Zemlinsky’s Lyric Symphony. The Orchestra of the Finnish National Opera will be conducted by Chief Conductor Hannu Lintu. Soprano Astrid Kessler and baritone Tommi Hakala will sing as the soloists of the Lyric Symphony.
