Estonia Theatre premieres 'Charon' opera written by Andrus Kivirähhk

The Estonia Theatre in Tallinn is closing its season with the world premiere of 'Charon', a new opera sung in Estonian. The work is based on ancient Greek mythology and created entirely by Estonian artists.

The Estonia Theatre in Tallinn is wrapping up its season with a highly anticipated world premiere: a brand-new opera titled 'Charon', performed entirely in Estonian and crafted by a team of acclaimed Estonian creators.

The opera tells the story of Charon, the mythological ferryman of the dead who carries souls across the river into Hades' underworld — a tale rooted in ancient Greek mythology. The libretto was written by celebrated Estonian author Andrus Kivirähhk, best known for his imaginative reinterpretations of folklore and myth. The music was composed by Tõnis Kaumann, while the production is directed by Jüllar Saaremäe.

The work explores universal themes of love, death, and what lies beyond — suggesting, as its premise implies, that love may prove stronger even than death itself. The choice to stage a mythological opera with an entirely Estonian creative team reflects a broader ambition at the theatre to champion original domestic works alongside the classical international repertoire.

'Charon' arrives at the end of the current theatrical season, giving audiences one final major cultural event before summer. The Estonia Theatre, one of Tallinn's most prestigious cultural institutions, has long served as the home of Estonian opera and ballet.