VIII Starptautiskais Operetes festivāls Ikšķilē
The VIII International Operetta Festival runs from August 9 to 15 in Ikšķile, Latvia. According to event details, the festival features a shift toward intimate chamber concerts and dramatic musical theater, bringing together Latvian and European artists, including Austrian performer Gernot Kranner and opera singer Sonora Vaice.
The festival’s organizers stated the eighth edition focuses on a “chamber program” to allow viewers to be closer to the artists and experience the nuances of musical theater more personally. This marks a departure from previous years by prioritizing smaller concerts and dramatic productions.
What is the schedule for the VIII International Operetta Festival?
The event begins August 9 with a charity concert titled “Prelude” at the St. Meinard’s Evangelical Lutheran Church in Ikšķile. According to the program, young Latvian soloists and musicians will perform accompanied by Agija Ozoliņa-Kozlovska on piano. Admission to this opening concert is free.
On August 14, the Ikšķile People’s House will host “Masterclass,” a play by American playwright Terence McNally regarding the life of opera diva Maria Callas. Sonora Vaice, a multiple Lielā mūzikas balva laureate, serves as both the director and the lead actress.
The festival concludes August 15 at the Ikšķile People’s House with a theatrical chanson program titled “I Break Hearts” (“Ich brech’ die Herzen”). The performance features Austrian artist Gernot Kranner, Austrian coloratura soprano Kerstina Grotriana, and Austrian pianist Fritz Fischer.
Who are the lead performers and their backgrounds?
Sonora Vaice directs and stars in “Masterclass,” a production that originated as a directing diploma work at the Latvia University of Culture. Theater critics have already praised the production’s direction and Vaice’s versatility, according to event information.
Gernot Kranner is an Austrian singer, actor, dancer, comedian, and mime. Latvian audiences recognize him from the series “Kommissar Rex” and his role as director for the operetta “Judita.” His August 15 program will feature chansons from the 1920s and 1930s.
What may happen next for the festival?
Given that the event has now run for eight years, it may continue to expand its network of European artists. The success of the current “chamber” approach could lead to a permanent shift in how the festival structures its annual programming.
The positive reception of the diploma-based production “Masterclass” may encourage future collaborations between the festival and the Latvia University of Culture.
Frequently Asked Questions
When and where does the VIII International Operetta Festival take place?
The festival occurs from August 9 to 15 in Ikšķile, Latvia, with events held at St. Meinard’s Evangelical Lutheran Church and the Ikšķile People’s House.
Which performance is free to the public?
The charity concert “Prelude” on August 9 at the St. Meinard’s Evangelical Lutheran Church offers free admission.
Who is performing in the “I Break Hearts” program?
The program features Austrian artist Gernot Kranner, coloratura soprano Kerstina Grotriana, and pianist Fritz Fischer.
Which of these musical theater styles—chamber concerts or theatrical chansons—do you find more appealing?