Productions

Opera by Andrus Kivirähk and Tõnis Kaumann
Music Director and Conductor Kaspar Mänd
Conductor Lauri Sirp
Composer Tõnis Kaumann
Librettist Andrus Kivirähk
Stage Director Üllar Saaremäe
Set Designer Jaanus Laagriküll
Costumes Designer Ketlin Saaremäe
Lighting Designer Rasmus Rembel
Video Designer Rene Topolev
Choreographer and Chorus Production Assistant Mehis Saaber
Production Assistant Pirjo Levandi
Chorus Master Heli Jürgenson
Assistant to the Chorus Master Ksenija Grabova
Chief Pianist and Repetiteur Tarmo Eespere
Pianist and Repetiteurs Ave Wagner, Jaanika Rand-Sirp, Riina Pikani
Stage manager Riina Airenne, Rein Lepnurm
Cast Tamar Nugis or Raiko Raalik, Elena Brazhnyk / Kristel Pärtna or Kadri Raalik, Mart Laur or Priit Volmer, Karis Trass or Aule Urb, Juuli Lill or Helen Lokuta, Rafael Dicenta or Heldur Harry Pőlda, Mart Madiste or Reigo Tamm, Arina Kotova, Mehis Saaber

The opera takes place in the underworld, known from ancient Greek myths, in the kingdom of Hades, the god of death. Since the beginning of time, the ferryman Charon has transported the souls of the departed across the river of the underworld, serving as a precise and diligent helper to his master. But one day, among the souls, there is a young and beautiful Niobe, and something completely unexpected happens – Charon falls in love with her. Niobe returns his affection, and as a result, she becomes pregnant. Although Niobe herself does not wish to leave Charon, the ferryman wants their child to be born in the world of the living. He does something entirely unheard of and against the law: with the help of Hypnos, the god of sleep, he aids Niobe in escaping from the underworld. However, Hades soon notices that one soul is missing and threatens Charon with cruel punishment.

As is typical for operas, the ensuing whirlwind of events offers plenty of opportunities for emotional engagement, tears and laughter, and holding one’s breath in anticipation of the surprising conclusion.