A tragicomic opera in two acts
Duration: 1:55 h
The Estonian writer Maarja Kangro completed this libretto 17 years ago, and Tõnis Kaumann wrote the music for it 16 years ago. Now it is being premiered at the Hafentheater as the opera The Mall. However, the prologue was composed especially for the Vanemuine Theater in 2022.
The mystical and fairytale shopping center, the Mecca of worldly temptations, awakens intense feelings and inspires passionate arias. Linda, Enn, Guglielmo, Piret and a student conducting a sociological study meet at the entrance to the shopping center. They try to imagine the world that awaits them behind the magical sliding doors and the amazing treasures they are tempted to buy by pretty neon signs and flickering lights… and why no one leaves the mall anymore…
Kaumann’s music paraphrases and parodies the entire history of European music. His oeuvre is eclectic and makes use of existing and recognizable styles from different eras.
When and where
Premiere on August 19, 2022 at the Hafentheater
Languages: Estonian, Italian
Subtitles: English, Estonian
Tõnis Kaumann was awarded the Estonian Music Council’s Composition Prize for a work that convincingly combines theatricality, humor and different styles.
Video
Gallery
Composer Tõnis Kaumann
Librettist Maarja Kangro
Musical direction and conductor Risto Joost
Conductors and choral conductors Aleksandr Bražnik, Kristi Jagodin
Directed by Liis Kolle
Scenographer and costume designer Kalle Aasamäe
Lighting designer Imbi Mälk
Choreographer Marika Aidla
Assistant director Aivar Kallaste
Pianists for the rehearsals Piia Paemurru, Katrin Nuume
Choir rehearsal pianist Katrin Nuume
Cast Pirjo Jonas or Maria Listra guest, Simo Breede or Alvar Tiisler guest, Raimonds Bramani’s Latvian National Opera or Hisatoshi Nezu, Taavi Tampuu guest or Kristjan Häggblom, Karmen Puis or Sandra Laagus guest, Rasmus Kull or Oliver Timmusk, Aivar Kallaste, and others.
Vanemuine Opera Choir and Symphony Orchestra