Dear audience,

A new season means new opportunities and new experiences. We are in a turbulent and troubled time. In such times, many turn to the arts. Through art, we can face the world, experience the lives of others and deepen our thoughts and feelings. The art poses questions and challenges us, and at the same time, it entertains us and inspires us. We get to escape from our worries and from the darkness, in order to turn our attention to other aspects of life – we escape to the beauty, joy and power found in opera, ballet and concerts. We at the Royal Swedish Opera have a dream that the art that we present inside and outside the Opera House is universal, that it can unite people regardless of their background. Such dreams and ambitions are needed in a time where societies are torn apart by conflict and polarisation.

In 2024, a decision needs to be made about how our beautiful but aged Opera House should be developed and equipped for the future, so that it becomes a functional, attractive and inviting home for Sweden's national stage for opera and ballet. At the same time, we are starting to plan for the big move that we will have to carry out in a couple of years, to make room for this great construction and renovation project. For now, however, we remain in our beloved Opera House. We have a fantastic autumn ahead of us, with exciting premieres such as Gustavia and Forever, a new Wozzeck, Jenůfa (with Nina Stemme returning to the Opera) and repeats of audience favorites such as Carmen, Tosca, Cinderella and Sweeney Todd. Not to mention all the concerts in various formats that the Royal Swedish Orchestra, our chorus and our soloists offer. You will meet both established stars and new talents. And here there are plenty of activities for both young and old. You are warmly welcome to accompany us on the entire journey.

Fredrik Lindgren
CEO, ROYAL SWEDISH OPERA