The Savonlinna Opera Festival’s guest week begins soon, as The Göteborg Opera arrives at Olavinlinna Castle with around 160 performers and members of its production team. The visit features a new production of Verdi’s La traviata as well as concert performances of Bellini’s Norma, in which one of the most acclaimed sopranos of our time, Lisette Oropesa, sings the title role for the first time in…
Olavinlinna is one of the best-preserved medieval castles in the Nordic countries and a valuable protected heritage site. As the setting for the Savonlinna Opera Festival, it is magnificent, unique—and highly challenging. The post Olavinlinna – A Unique Stage for Opera appeared first on Savonlinna Opera Festival .
The Savonlinna region offers summer visitors much more than opera. This year, the city is celebrating its Dream Year of Culture, highlighting creativity, passion, and community spirit. The anniversary year is reflected in the city’s rich cultural program, but there are plenty of other activities on offer as well. We also recommend another music festival that is well worth experiencing after the…
In the concert version of Norma, a story woven around forbidden love, the focus shifts from costumes and sets to world-class soloists and Bellini’s enchanting music. Bellini’s masterpiece comes to life as the dazzling soprano Lisette Oropesa makes her role debut as Norma, alongside internationally acclaimed tenor John Osborn. These five reasons explain why this powerful opera is well worth…
Verdi’s beloved masterpiece tells the heartbreaking love story of the courtesan Violetta and the nobleman Alfredo. La Traviata is one of the most frequently performed operas in the world, and its enduring appeal lies in its deeply moving story, compelling characters, and unforgettable melodies. These five reasons explain why La Traviata is the perfect choice for both first-time opera-goers and…
Puccini’s Madama Butterfly is one of the most moving love stories in opera history—a work that emerged from failure and grew into one of the world’s most beloved operas. This summer, it will be seen on the unique stage of Olavinlinna, as soprano Silja Aalto takes on the role of Cio-Cio-San for the first time. These five reasons will convince you, whether you are attending opera for the first time…
Verdi’s Nabucco is a work born of despair that became a triumphant anthem—not only for its composer, but also for opera audiences everywhere. This summer at Olavinlinna, world-class soloists and the magnificent chorus of the Savonlinna Opera Festival will bring the opera to life in the castle’s unique acoustics. These five reasons explain why Nabucco is the opera experience of summer 2026. The…
Savonlinna in summer is well worth experiencing thanks to both the Opera Festival and its diverse restaurant offerings. Many menus even feature dishes inspired by opera. Whether you want to taste fish freshly caught from Lake Saimaa, soak up the market square atmosphere with a pastry, or enjoy a delicious dinner before the opera, you’re sure to find the perfect place to eat from the selection…
Mozart’s charmingly vibrant and witty The Marriage of Figaro returns to Savonlinna Opera Festival after eleven years! Enhanced by an outstanding cast of soloists and a colorful direction, this production promises that everyone will leave Olavinlinna Castle with a smile on their face and Mozart’s lively melodies humming in their minds. These five reasons explain why this beloved opera is worth…
Savonlinna and its surrounding areas offer opera visitors a wide range of accommodation options. Whether you want to enjoy the lively atmosphere of the city, the peace of nature, or the charm of history, these tips will help you find the perfect place to stay to suit your needs. The post Tips for the opera trip accommodation appeared first on Savonlinna Opera Festival .
