Latvian Premiere of Lehár’s “Judith” Captivates Audiences Across the Country

The Operetta Theatre is touring Latvia with its premiere production of Franz Lehár’s operetta, “Judith,” a work celebrated as one of the composer’s finest and a personal favorite. The production, which premiered on October 3, 2025, has already garnered acclaim, earning the title of “Stage Event of the Year” in the 2025 “Classics” TOP 10 by Latvian Radio 3 [BilesuParadize]. Performances are scheduled from March 14 to April 14 in cities including Alūksne, Liepāja, Cēsis, Rēzekne, Slampė, and Riga.

A Landmark Production

This marks the first time “Judith” has been staged in Latvia [Visit Ventspils], coinciding with the 155th birthday of composer Franz Lehár. The operetta, a musical comedy in five acts [Pilsetas.lv], is known for its blend of comic, lyrical, and dramatic elements, blurring the lines between operetta and opera.

Creative Team and Cast

The production is directed by Austrian director Gernot Kranner, with costume design by Aleksandra Brandner (Germany), and scenography by Herwig Libovicki (Austria). Atvars Lakstīgala serves as the conductor and musical director, with Artūrs Plaudis taking the helm for performances in Slampė and Riga. Choreography is by Ieva Kemler, and the libretto translation into Latvian is by Evita Mamaja.

The cast features Anta Jankovska (Italy) or Anastasia Dolgonenko in the title role of Judith, and Dainis Skutelis or Juris Jope as Octavio. Other performers include Jolanta Strikaite, Emīls Kivlenieks, Nauris Indzeris, Inmārs Sikle, Patricija Kozlovskis, and Henrijs Kozlovskis, alongside a choir, dancers, and symphony orchestra.

Performance Schedule

• March 14, 18:00: Alūksne Cultural Center
• March 20, 19:00: Liepāja Theatre
• March 27, 19:00: Rēzekne Concert Hall “Gors”
• March 29, 17:00: Slampes Palace of Culture
• April 10, 19:00: “Cēsis” Concert Hall
• April 14, 19:00: VEF Culture Palace (benefit show)

About the Operetta Theatre

The Operetta Theatre is a Latvian non-governmental professional musical theatre dedicated to cultivating and developing the operetta genre in Latvia [Operetesteatris.lv]. The theatre aims to preserve the tradition of operetta while also offering modern interpretations and new productions.