The Oslo Operafestival (24-28 September) is the ultimate destination for anyone seeking a premier opera experience. It offers audiences a chance to enjoy opera in a variety of unique settings—whether at the intimate Gamle Raadhus Stage, our mini-opera house, aboard a tram, in concert halls, or throughout the city.
This festival is designed for everyone, from lifelong opera enthusiasts to those simply curious about this magnificent art form. With numerous free events, our goal is to make opera accessible to all.
The festival kicks off on the 24th with an opening concert at Christiania Torv, continuing a cherished tradition. This year, the location is particularly significant as it marks 400 years since the founding of Christiania and 100 years since the city reclaimed its name, Oslo. The concert, in collaboration with Oslo Urban Week, will be held at Øvre Slottsgate, next to the Anatomy Building—the yellow house on the square.
On the 25th, we join Sotis and Stripen, two cats living in a dirty, trash-filled backyard. One night, Sotis dreams of a garden filled with flowers. Can the friends make this dream a reality? Through well-known opera arias and duets, their journey unfolds with laughter, tears, conflict, and reconciliation. In this playful, interactive performance, they experiment with different ways to clean and sort the rubbish, ultimately solving the mystery with the help of children. This production, the winner of Opera Østfold's children's opera competition, teaches young audiences about waste sorting and has been enthusiastically received across various venues.
Later that evening, indulge in an intimate classical music performance alongside a delicious four-course menu. Featuring soprano Viktoria Joner, mezzo-soprano Matilda Goike, baritone Magnus Dorholt Kjeldal, and pianist Olga Jørgensen, the evening promises a unique and unforgettable cultural experience.
On the 26th, we honor one of opera’s greatest composers, Giacomo Puccini, who passed away 100 years ago on November 29, 1924. The evening will feature a mixed program of Puccini’s works, along with music from composers he admired or was inspired by, including excerpts from La Bohème and some of his most iconic arias.
On Friday, September 27th, delve into the world of two of Spain’s most renowned artists: Fernando Sor, the "Beethoven of guitarists," and poet-composer Garcia Lorca. Sor’s versatile career as an opera and ballet composer, traveling guitar virtuoso, and professional soldier will be highlighted.
At 5 p.m., another concert commemorates the exact moment, 400 years ago, when Christian IV declared, "Here shall the city lie," marking the founding of Christiania. The opera tour will begin at Christiania Torv, offering a rare opportunity to explore the historical square through an operatic lens. This event coincides with Oslo’s double jubilee celebrations in 2024.
Later that evening, we present a shortened version of Giuseppe Verdi’s Aida. Though performed with piano accompaniment, the beautiful music remains just as moving. The opera’s gripping plot unfolds in ancient Egypt, centered on the dramatic custom of punishing criminals by burying them alive. The rivalry between Aida and Amneris for the love of Rhadames, an Egyptian warrior, drives the action, making for a captivating performance.
On September 28th, three concerts are planned. At 2 p.m., enjoy a condensed version of Pyotr Tchaikovsky’s Eugene Onegin. Performed with piano accompaniment, the opera tells the story of love, jealousy, and regret between Tatjana, Olga, Lensky, and Onegin. The sisters, Tatjana and Olga, open the performance with playful bickering, setting the tone for this poignant tale.
At 6 p.m., Talland Opera presents The Waves, a mesmerizing new chamber opera based on Virginia Woolf’s literary masterpiece. Composed by award-winning British composer Louis Mander with a libretto by Tamsin Treverton Jones, the opera is directed by Einar Bjørge. This marks the first time Woolf’s poetic reflection on friendship, identity, and the fleeting nature of life has been adapted for the opera stage. The performance will be sung in English.
The Oslo Operafestival culminates with Operapub at 7 p.m. You might think opera isn’t for you, but you’re invited to experience it in a relaxed pub setting. The singers introduce each aria, creating a welcoming atmosphere where you can enjoy food, drink, and world-class music. With three short sets of about 15 minutes, there’s plenty of time to socialize between performances. Operapub has become increasingly popular, often filling up quickly. Don’t miss the third season of this delightful event at Grønland Boulebar.
Warm welcome!
