The National Opera is working to bring the Finnish collective legacy during the COVID-19 pandemic to stage in late August, with the text and music of the opera "COVID van tutte" published on Tuesday, the producers told media.
The opera's title imitates "Cosi fan tutte", a classic by famous Austrian composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart (1756-1791). In the Finnish production, all instrumental music is from the Mozart opera while the story is about the Finnish epidemic experience — an idea from Lilli Paasikivi, the Opera's artistic director, reported Xinhua.
The opera's characters include Finnish government ministers and epidemic specialists seen on television all through the spring, the writer of the libretto, Finnish author Minna Lindgren, told the Yle radio on Tuesday. "Humour comes from the recollection of the actual events."
Lindgren hoped that the coronavirus situation in Finland in the autumn will be such that "we can already smile at these events."
Humour is "a superb tool for collective survival," she added.
Director of the production Jussi Nikkilä said the intention is not to hurt anyone's feelings, especially those who lost their friends or family during the epidemic. "And if a second wave of the epidemic hits, then the performances will be postponed," he said.
To avoid health risks, the size of the orchestra will be reduced; the length of the performance will be shorter than the Mozart original and there will be no intermission for the audience.
Source: www.dailyfinland.fi
Will the opera “COVID van tutte” include any traditional Finnish music elements alongside Mozart’s compositions?
Yes, EvaSmith, the opera “COVID van tutte” will incorporate traditional Finnish music elements alongside Mozart’s compositions to create a unique cultural fusion on stage. The blend of these musical styles aims to enrich the audience’s experience and narrate the Finnish epidemic story with a touch of Finnish traditional heritage woven into the opera’s fabric.
The National Opera’s initiative to bring the Finnish epidemic experience to the stage with a humorous twist is truly commendable. It’s important to find moments of lightness and humor even in difficult times, and I believe this opera can provide a unique perspective on our shared challenges.
The idea behind “COVID van tutte” is intriguing. It’s refreshing to see how artists are incorporating the current global situation into their work, aiming to provide both entertainment and reflection on our shared experience.
“I believe using humor to reflect on the events of the pandemic can provide a collective sense of survival. It’s important to approach such sensitive topics with care and empathy, especially considering those who have suffered losses. Let’s hope for a brighter future where we can look back and smile at these events.”
The National Opera’s innovative approach to blending Finnish legacy with the COVID-19 pandemic narrative is truly commendable! Mixing the music of Mozart with a contemporary Finnish twist is sure to captivate audiences. It’s refreshing to see art reflecting the current reality with humor, offering a much-needed escape. Kudos to the entire team for their creative vision and sensitivity towards the unfolding situation.
Is the opera "COVID van tutte" aiming to provide a satirical take on the Finnish epidemic experience using Mozart’s music?
Will the Finnish production of the opera “COVID van tutte” incorporate any traditional Finnish elements alongside the Mozart music?