A Midsummer Night's Dream

Opera by Benjamin Britten in 3 acts

Guest Performance of the Lithuanian National Opera and Ballet Theatre on April 26, 2026

 

Music Director and Conductor: Martynas Stakionis

Conductors: Julius Geniušas, Ričardas Šumila

Stage Director: Gintaras Varnas

Set Designer: Vytautas Narbutas

Costume Designer: Juozas Statkevičius

Chorus Master: Česlovas Radžiūnas

 

Benjamin Britten‘s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” is one of the most successful operatic adaptations of William Shakespeare’s play. The opera is faithful to the original – it contains much of Shakespeare’s own text. A work of truly enchanting spirit, it flourishes in the unique world of a midsummer night’s dream. The premiere of the opera took place in 1960 at the Aalborg Festival – it was conducted by the composer himself, and directed by choreographer John Cranko. The comic, poetic, romantic story is attractive due to its numerous layers: some will see it as a traditional fairy tale with plenty of funny situations, while others will discover a whole treasure trove of psychology. Music lovers will hear musical gestures of respect and satire based on various classical works in the genre of opera, from Baroque to Arnold Schoenberg. Ultimately, it is a magical and extremely romantic evening.