This May, Grand Theatre (Teatr Wielki) in Poznań invites all lovers of the arts to an unforgettable month packed with music, drama, movement, and learning. From the tragic splendour of Verdi’s Rigoletto to the sun-drenched vivacity of Don Quixote, and from refined chamber music evenings to dynamic ballet workshops for all ages — there’s something magical in the air. Here’s a closer look at what’s happening beneath the Pegasus this spring.
Verdi’s “Rigoletto”
This May, the Grand Theatre brings the curtain down on its stirring production of Giuseppe Verdi’s Rigoletto. For the last time this season, audiences will witness the haunting tragedy of the court jester Rigoletto, whose efforts to protect his daughter Gilda end in devastation. Since its 1851 premiere at Venice’s La Fenice, Rigoletto has captivated hearts worldwide, and Verdi himself once said it was “the best work I have ever done”.
In Poznań’s Grand Theatre, director Marcin Bortkiewicz adds a layer of noir-inspired intensity to the story, highlighting the contrasts between the court’s frivolity and its hidden cruelties. Scenography by Paweł Dobrzycki and sumptuous costumes by Dorota Roqueplo enrich the experience, offering both elegance and emotional depth. Andrzej Dobber (8, 10, 13 May) and Luis Cansino (9, 11 May) alternate in the demanding title role, supported by a stellar cast including Małgorzata Olejniczak-Worobiej and Ruslana Koval as Gilda.
Performance Dates:
- 8 May 2025, 19:00
- 9 May 2025, 19:00
- 10 May 2025, 19:00
- 11 May 2025, 18:00
- 13 May 2025, 19:00
Tickets: Prices range between 45–130 PLN depending on seat selection. Early booking recommended via opera.poznan.pl.
“This Time Without Arias”
On 15 and 16 May, the Grand Theatre’s Drabowicz Hall transforms into an intimate haven for vocal music lovers. “This Time Without Arias” takes the audience beyond solo performances to revel in the magic of duets, trios, quartets, and even a buoyant quintet from operatic giants like Mozart, Puccini, Bizet, Verdi and Rossini.
Instead of the usual show-stopping arias, the programme invites listeners into the subtle emotional interplay between voices. From joyful bursts of wit to poignant cries of despair, the Grand Theatre’s talented soloists demonstrate the depth and richness of ensemble opera. Expect a night of pure musical connection — small in scale, but vast in feeling.
Concert Dates:
- 15 May 2025, 19:00
- 16 May 2025, 19:00
Tickets: Approx. 40–70 PLN.
“Don Quixote”
Prepare for a riot of colour, humour, and virtuosity as Don Quixote spins onto the stage! Set to Ludwig Minkus’ lively score, Michal Štípa’s choreography bursts with classical elegance and a spirited dose of Spanish flair. Follow Kitri and Basilio as they navigate love, mischief and mistaken identities under the watchful (if slightly confused) eye of the chivalrous Don Quixote.
What makes this production so thrilling is its celebration of dance for dance’s sake — Štípa’s version doesn’t overburden the story with modern reinterpretations. Instead, it offers pure, infectious joy, executed with dazzling technical prowess by Poznań’s company of dancers.
This ballet doesn’t seek hidden meanings. It invites the audience simply to rejoice in the beauty of movement.
critic, Katarzyna Gardzina, wrote after the premiere.
Performance Dates:
- 17 May 2025, 19:00
- 18 May 2025, 18:00
- 21 May 2025, 19:00
- 22 May 2025, 19:00
- 23 May 2025, 19:00
- 24 May 2025, 19:00
Tickets: 50–140 PLN depending on section.
Ballet Workshops
The Grand Theatre is not just about performances — it’s about participation too! On 10 and 24 May, the theatre invites movers of all ages to experience ballet for themselves. Led by former Grand Theatre soloist Natalia Trafankowska, these workshops create a welcoming environment for young children and adults alike.
For children aged 4–7, workshops begin at 14:30 and last 45 minutes. They are playful, joyful introductions to the world of ballet, focusing on rhythm, musical sensitivity, and of course, fun.
Adults (18–108 years!) can join the 15:45 class, where they’ll stretch, move and balance in a professional ballet studio. No previous experience is needed — just curiosity and a spirit of adventure.
Have you ever wondered what it’s like to stand at the barre or dance on tiptoe? Now’s your chance!
say the organisers.
Location: Malarnia Hall, Grand Theatre.
Workshop fees: Approx. 30 PLN.
About the Grand Theatre
Standing proudly at ul. Fredry 9, Teatr Wielki im. Stanisława Moniuszki has been a guardian of the operatic and ballet tradition since 1910. Designed by Max Littmann, it is one of Poland’s few surviving opera houses in its original architectural form, and a beloved symbol of the city’s cultural identity.
Over the decades, the Grand Theatre has survived wars, political upheavals, and radical changes in artistic trends. Today, it continues to thrive, positioning itself at the crossroads of tradition and innovation. Its mission embraces both classic repertoire and bold contemporary projects, nurturing new generations of artists and audiences alike.
Internationally, the theatre has won accolades for productions such as The Passenger by Mieczysław Weinberg, which toured major festivals and was praised for its artistic courage and emotional depth. The institution is also a member of Opera Europa, strengthening its links with leading cultural centres across the continent.
In Poznań, the Grand Theatre is not just a venue; it is a living, breathing part of the city’s soul — a place where art and life intermingle daily. As their educational team proudly says: “Come with curiosity. Leave with wonder.”
Practical Info
- Location: Teatr Wielki im. Stanisława Moniuszki, ul. Fredry 9, Poznań, Poland
- Tickets & Info: opera.poznan.pl
- Phone: +48 61 65 90 219
- Email: edukacja@opera.poznan.pl
