On June 15, the premiere of the new production of “Estonian women’s songs”, choral cycle by Veljo Tormis, was given in Omari barn on the Estonian island of Naissaar. (In ancient times various name versions of the island were used, such as: Narghetn, Nargö, Nargen.) The work was staged in cooperation of Nargen Opera and Von Krahl Theatre in frame of the Nargen Festival held throughout the summer season.
Tormis’ choral cycle, originally titled as “Women’s Songs”, was created in years 1974–1975 on the libretto of Jaan Kaplinski. Via ancient folk song the work delves into timeless circumstances of the „women’s world”. The first premiere of the “Women’s songs” took place in 1977 in Vanemuine Theatre, Tartu, under the direction of Kaarel Ird.
“Estonian women’s songs” is directed by Peeter Jalakas, musical director is Tõnu Kaljuste. The performers are the Nargen Opera Choir and soloists Kädi Plaas, Iris Oja, Celia Roose, Maret Mursa, Anne Türnpu, Lidia Mägi, Kärt Johanson, Ingrit Vaher, Riina Maidre, Veronika Portsmuth and Meelika Hainsoo. The performances take place in June 16, 17 and 19–22.
In 2004, another large-scale choral work by Veljo Tormis, the ballet-cantata “Estonian ballads” (1980) was staged in cooperation of Peeter Jalakas and Tõnu Kaljuste.