For the first time, two captivating works are performed together in a single evening: Luonnotar by Jean Sibelius and Iolanta by Pyotr Tchaikovsky feature two female protagonists, two creation myths, and two journeys of self-discovery.

Sibelius composed his symphonic poem Luonnotar in 1913 at the request of Aino Ackté, a pioneering opera singer and a leading figure in Finnish opera. Based on a poem from the Finnish national epic, Kalevala, the piece was dedicated to Ackté.

This performance marks the 150th anniversary of her birth. Luonnotar, which depicts the birth of the world, is performed by soprano Silja Aalto and the Orchestra of the Finnish National Opera.

Tchaikovsky’s Iolanta was first and last performed at the Finnish National Opera in 1919. His final opera tells the story of Princess Iolanta, whose blindness is such a closely kept secret that even she herself does not know it. 

When Count Vaudémont falls in love with the princess, he reveals the truth to her. A doctor tells her that she can regain her sight, but the choice is hers: to continue life as she knows it or embrace an utterly unknown future.

Finnish National Opera and Ballet

15.-30.5.2026

Performances:

15.5. / 20.5. / 22.5. / 26.5. / 28.5. / 30.5.

19.00-20.50, no intermission

Tickets 31-139€, age recommendation 12+

Performed in Finnish and Russian, surtitles in Finnish, Swedish and English