Aulis Sallinen – Paavo Haavikko
The Horseman
When all that’s left is love
Imagine a future where every conceivable horror has come to pass: a nuclear disaster, extinct species, oceans filled with plastic, and superpowers oppressing weaker nations. There’s no more mail, press, or data networks. Rumours and beliefs thrive. This is the reality in which Antti and Anna live. What happens to love in the shadow of oppression?
Seen for the first time at the Finnish National Opera, Aulis Sallinen’s (b. 1935) The Horseman takes audiences on a journey to a dystopian future. Jussi Nikkilä’s direction featuring Finland’s top singers promises a compelling interpretation of one of the country’s landmark operatic works.
synopsis
In the midst of a war between Sweden and Russia, Finland finds itself caught as a battleground between the two powers. Here, people must either live in near enslavement or collaborate with the occupiers as bureaucrats or tradesmen. This is the world in which Antti and Anna find themselves. What happens to love in the face of oppression?
Full synopsis and other background information can be found in the programme leaflet.
creative team
- Music
- Aulis Sallinen
- Libretto
- Paavo Haavikko
- Conductor
- Harri Karri, Hannu Lintu
- Director
- Jussi Nikkilä
- Sets
- takis
- Costumes
- takis
- Lighting and projection design
- Mikko Linnavuori
- Choreography
- Mirva Mäkinen
cast
listen to the horseman
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tickets and performances
Gift packages are available to this performance. A gift package includes ticket(s) to the best seats in the stalls as well as interval refreshments from a buffet: coffee/tea and Opera cake(s). Choose your seats from the stalls in price category B or C and select ticket type ‘GIFT PACKAGE’. The offer is valid until 23 December. The offer does not apply to premieres. Package availability is limited.
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Programme booklets
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