Venus & Adonis

Sep 7, 2026 | 7:00 pm – 8:00 pm

Arabiasali

Muotoilijankatu 1B, 00560 Helsinki

Believed to be performed in Finland for the first time, John Blow’s (1649–1708) opera Venus & Adonis tells the story of the goddess Venus’s love for the mortal Adonis. 

Composed for the court of King Charles II in 1683, it is considered the oldest known English opera. 

Venus & Adonis is based on the masque tradition common in 17th-century England. Blow’s only opera is filled with grace, beauty, and danceability, as well as powerful emotional intensity.
 

Music: John Blow (1649–1708)

Libretto: Anne Kingsmill Finch (1661–1720)
 

Conductor: Anna-Maaria Oramo

Director: Juulia Tapola

Choreographer: Maria Hostikka

Orchestra: Espoo Baroque 

Featuring Metropolia students, alumni, and guest artists.

 

Arabia Hall

7.9.2026

19.00-20.00, no intermission

Tickets 15/30€

 

Performed in English, surtitles in Finnish and Swedish 

Photo Bridgeman Images