Cancelled: Billy Budd

Britten’s sea-themed masterpiece evokes the claustrophobic ambience of a World War II submarine. The opera reveals suppressed passions and the burden of guilt.

Benjamin Britten’s Billy Budd makes its first appearance at the Finnish National Opera in spring 2022. The stirring production evokes the claustrophobic ambience of a World War II submarine.

The production directed by Annalise Miskimmon for the Norwegian National Opera in 2019 has been immensely popular ever since its premiere. The breathtaking sets and costumes take the audience to the world of 1940s French warships, where life is dictated by navy discipline and the inevitability of war.

The opera reveals not only suppressed passions and the burden of guilt, but also the power of beauty and liberation. The intensive story gets under the skin and reflects the very core of humanity.

British composer Benjamin Britten is particularly revered for his vocal music. Billy Budd echoes with the roar of the seas, which is co-created by the tempestuous orchestra, imposing chorus, and virtuoso soloists.

Music: Benjamin Britten
Conductor: Hannu Lintu
Director: Annilese Miskimmon
Sets and costumes: Annemarie Woods

Finnish National Opera and Ballet
28.1.-24.2.2022

Tickets 20-129€, duration 3 h 10 min
Recommended for children over the age of 12.

Performed in English, surtitles in Finnish, Swedish and English