Church of St. Wenceslas / Tišnov

Is Verdi’s famous Nabucco merely an opera about the yearning for freedom? Jiří Heřman’s production offers a compelling perspective on the story of the Babylonian king and the Jewish people, centering on family relationships and King Nebuchadnezzar himself. Filled with magnificent choral passages and stirring vocal roles, the opera has been one of the most popular titles in our repertoire for 35 years.

What is the price of striving to be a good ruler and building a great empire? Verdi’s opera is based on the Old Testament story of the Jewish people’s captivity under the Babylonian king Nebuchadnezzar and their longing to return to their homeland—a story that retains its power and relevance to this day, epitomized by the famous chorus "Va, pensiero, sull’ali dorate" (Fly, thought, on golden wings...). Yet, like Verdi’s other works, Nabucco also harbors a more intimate layer concerning love: the story of two sisters, Fenena and Abigaille, and their conflict over the love of the man they both adore and the affection of their father. Verdi portrayed it all with the sensibility of a true dramatist, and the music—brimming with immediacy, passion, and temperament—rightfully continues to captivate audiences today.

RICHARD WAGNER *Siegfried Idyll* for chamber orchestra, WWV 103
GUSTAV MAHLER *Des Knaben Wunderhorn* (The Youth’s Magic Horn), selections from the song cycle
ANTONÍN REJCHA Overture in D major
IGOR STRAVINSKY *Pulcinella*, suite from the ballet

Christoph Prégardien, tenor
Brno Philharmonic
Conductor: Dennis Russell Davies

Richard Wagner composed the *Siegfried Idyll* as an occasional orchestral piece. In it, he looked back to the time when his son Siegfried was born and when he was working on the final scene of the opera of the same name. The idyll is dedicated to his wife Cosima; it was performed for the first time on December 25, 1870—Cosima’s birthday—on the staircase of the Wagner family home in Tribschen, near Lucerne.

This Brno-based tribute act dedicated to The Doors—which originated from the legendary *Hvězdy na vrbě* (Stars on the Willow) musical at Brno’s Hadivadlo Theatre—delivers an authentic musical experience capturing the spirit of one of rock history’s most iconic bands. Through their energy, atmosphere, and faithful renditions of classic songs, they transport you back to the 1960s, when The Doors reigned supreme on stages around the world.

The story of young Klárka, set on Christmas Eve, takes us first into the real world of lavish holiday celebrations and then into the realm of Klárka’s dreams. This version by Canadian choreographer Fernand Nault premiered in 1964 and has come to life every winter since, performed by Les Grands Ballets Canadiens in Montreal. Its highlights include a lively pace and a seamless flow of scenes, but above all, the spectacular set and costume design, which captivates children with its richness and vibrant colors. Join us in a magical world and let yourself be whisked away on a sleigh ride through a snowy landscape. Dance amidst the snowflakes until you reach the Kingdom of Sweets, where the King himself awaits to welcome you. On this fairy-tale journey, alongside the Nutcracker, you will encounter nearly a hundred different characters brought to life by soloists and members of the NdB Ballet, as well as students from the Brno Dance Conservatory and the I. V. Psota Ballet School. A ballet fairy tale for the whole family about the magic of Christmas Eve.

RICHARD WAGNER *Siegfried Idyll* for chamber orchestra, WWV 103
GUSTAV MAHLER *Des Knaben Wunderhorn* (The Youth’s Magic Horn), selections from the song cycle
ANTONÍN REJCHA Overture in D major
IGOR STRAVINSKY *Pulcinella*, suite from the ballet

Christoph Prégardien, tenor
Brno Philharmonic
Conductor: Dennis Russell Davies

Richard Wagner composed the *Siegfried Idyll* as an occasional orchestral piece. In it, he looked back to the time when his son Siegfried was born and when he was working on the final scene of the opera of the same name. The idyll is dedicated to his wife Cosima; it was performed for the first time on December 25, 1870—Cosima’s birthday—on the staircase of the Wagner family home in Tribschen, near Lucerne.

A traditional Christmas concert featuring the now-legendary band A-beat and a Led Zeppelin revival act. This wild, beer-and-wine-fueled evening will showcase rock classics—expect tracks by the Rolling Stones, Jimi Hendrix, Iggy Pop, Led Zeppelin, and many more!

A trio of blues enthusiasts from Brno, the band plays raw, authentic, and visceral original blues. Since their debut *Shovel & Mattock* (2017), they have established a strong presence on both the domestic and international scenes. A major milestone was their collaboration with Mississippi bluesmen R.L. Boyce and Kenny Brown, with whom they recorded two albums in the USA (2019). Their music resonates across Europe, the USA, and Asia, and their live shows are high-energy experiences.

The story of young Klárka, set on Christmas Eve, takes us first into the real world of lavish holiday celebrations and then into the realm of Klárka’s dreams. This version by Canadian choreographer Fernand Nault premiered in 1964 and has come to life every winter since, performed by Les Grands Ballets Canadiens in Montreal. Its highlights include a lively pace and a seamless flow of scenes, but above all, the spectacular set and costume design, which captivates children with its richness and vibrant colors. Join us in a magical world and let yourself be whisked away on a sleigh ride through a snowy landscape. Dance amidst the snowflakes until you reach the Kingdom of Sweets, where the King himself awaits to welcome you. On this fairy-tale journey, alongside the Nutcracker, you will encounter nearly a hundred different characters brought to life by soloists and members of the NdB Ballet, as well as students from the Brno Dance Conservatory and the I. V. Psota Ballet School. A ballet fairy tale for the whole family about the magic of Christmas Eve.

The story of young Klárka, set on Christmas Eve, takes us first into the real world of lavish holiday celebrations and then into the realm of Klárka’s dreams. This version by Canadian choreographer Fernand Nault premiered in 1964 and has come to life every winter since, performed by Les Grands Ballets Canadiens in Montreal. Its highlights include a lively pace and a seamless flow of scenes, but above all, the spectacular set and costume design, which captivates children with its richness and vibrant colors. Join us in a magical world and let yourself be whisked away on a sleigh ride through a snowy landscape. Dance amidst the snowflakes until you reach the Kingdom of Sweets, where the King himself awaits to welcome you. On this fairy-tale journey, alongside the Nutcracker, you will encounter nearly a hundred different characters brought to life by soloists and members of the NdB Ballet, as well as students from the Brno Dance Conservatory and the I. V. Psota Ballet School. A ballet fairy tale for the whole family about the magic of Christmas Eve.

We have decided to prepare a unique Christmas gift for all the audience members of the Brno City Theatre: a Christmas concert to be performed over several shows on the MdB Music Stage.

AC/DC TRIBUTE Pardubice is a group of fans of the legendary Australian band AC/DC who fulfill their dream of playing this fantastic music—which evokes both nostalgia and joy—during their performances. They strive to make every concert as close to the original as possible, not only musically but also visually, through authentic costumes, choreography, and even precise replicas of the band's signature bell and cannons. The group aims to make every show unique, ensuring fans feel as though they are at a real AC/DC concert. This dedication has earned them great acclaim and praise from audiences across the Czech Republic and abroad.

If you are looking to enjoy the great music of AC/DC, then AC/DC TRIBUTE Pardubice is the perfect choice.

The band consists of musicians with extensive musical backgrounds who have previously released numerous albums of original material with various other groups. They have served as the opening act for global icons such as Led Zeppelin, David Bowie, Rage Against the Machine, Faith No More, and Waltari. They have also collaborated with top Czech artists, including Karel Gott, Václav Hybš, David Koller, Ivan Král, Kamil Střihavka, and Petr Kolář.

Experience a Christmas classic like never before.
The unique *Three Wishes for Cinderella* (Tři oříšky pro Popelku) film-in-concert is coming to your city—a beloved fairy tale for all generations, shown in high definition on a massive LED screen and accompanied live by a full 70-piece orchestra.

Karel Svoboda’s magical score awaits, elevating legendary scenes into an unforgettable concert experience—from the tender melodies of the winter landscape to the triumphant fanfares of the royal ball. And when that unforgettable moment arrives—"Preceptor, why aren't they playing?!"—the orchestra will answer you right there in the hall.

A fairy tale that unites generations. Music that still moves the heart after decades.

Experience *Three Wishes for Cinderella* in a unique Christmas atmosphere—and hear it like never before!

A full-length film screening on a large LED screen, accompanied live by a 70-piece symphony orchestra and band.

After years away, BOY returns to the local stage. On Saturday, December 19, at Kabinet MÚZ in Brno, the band will perform a set featuring older tracks alongside material from their new album, *Enemies of the Light*, which is being released via Voltage Records.

For this special evening, the core trio—Martino, Kelso, and Olda—will be joined by Norwegian collaborators who also feature on the new record: Tommy Akerholdt (Turbonegro) on drums and Johan Larsson (OnklP) on bass. Larsson also served as the producer for the entire new album.

And the special lineup doesn't stop there.

American pianist and producer Ronnie King—who also contributed to the new BOY record—will fly to Brno exclusively for this concert. Throughout his career, he has collaborated extensively with major acts such as The Offspring, NOFX, Rancid, and Pennywise, as well as Snoop Dogg and Mariah Carey.

MARTIN JAKUBÍČEK: A Thousand Angels (Premiere)
LENA RIEGEROVÁ and STANISLAV CHUDOBA: A Christmas Fairy Tale

Magdalenka and Kantilénka
Choir directors: Veronika Novosádová and Michal Jančík

Kantiléna is a select children’s and youth choir affiliated with the Brno Philharmonic; its three sections comprise around 150 singers aged 5 to 19. It was founded in 1956 as the Šlapanice Children’s Choir at the initiative of Ivan Sedláček, who later served as its artistic director for many years. In 1967, it became a select ensemble under its current name, and since 1984, it has operated under the auspices of the Brno Philharmonic, frequently performing at the orchestra's events.

We have decided to prepare a unique Christmas gift for all the audience members of the Brno City Theatre: a Christmas concert to be performed over several shows on the MdB Music Stage.

Concert performance

Affectionately nicknamed *Rybovka*, the work was composed in 1796 by the Czech composer Jakub Jan Ryba, who also wrote the Czech lyrics for the mass. Although Ryba adhered to the structure of the Latin musical mass, he essentially created a pastoral play depicting the Annunciation of Christ’s birth and the shepherds’ arrival at the manger; thanks to its fresh, joyful melodies, the work became an instant success and—even today, more than two centuries later—remains an integral part of the Christmas season. However, Ryba’s mass was not the only one of its kind; one of its predecessors is the charming *Missa pastoralis in C boemica* (also known as the Moravian Christmas Mass "Čuj, Miko, čuj!"), composed around 1755 by the Moravian cantor Josef Schreier. Schreier’s mass is essentially a sequence of short pastorales that wittily blend Latin text with the Wallachian dialect; musically, it draws heavily on Moravian folk music of the late Baroque era, making it a fascinating counterpart to Ryba’s Classical-style mass.

We have decided to prepare a unique Christmas gift for all the audience members of the Brno City Theatre: a Christmas concert to be performed over several shows on the MdB Music Stage.

Christmas Concert

Dasha was born in Zlín in 1981. She played the piano and violin from a young age, but singing ultimately won out. She began her career in the Bohuslav Martinů Philharmonic Children's Choir and with the swing band Big Band Zlín. In 1995, she won the "Talentárium" singing competition on the TV show *Mini Maxi*, hosted by Lucie Vondráčková; a year later, she won the "Zlíntalent" festival for young singers, which paved the way not only for her singing career but also for the release of her debut album, *… Do peřin*. Thanks to this competition, she moved to Prague, where Jiří Korn took her under his wing at the Krach artistic agency. She had not originally intended to become a singer; she had planned to study tourism and languages.

LVMEN

Some of us thought that after the album’s release, there would be one or two shows, and then—silence for a few years. But far from it! Exactly one year later, Lvmen returns to Kabinet MÚZ. A cornerstone of the Czech post-hardcore scene and one of our most significant bands of the last 30 years—a group held dear by thousands of fans across Europe.

THULSA

Thulsa will be showcasing new material at Kabinet MÚZ! This Brno-based band features familiar faces (from acts like Tummo, Roxor, and Evidence Smrti) with Milan "Banán" Trachta on vocals. Expect a blend of hardcore, metal, and stoner doom, paired with lyrics that explore the realm of existential utopia. The band released their debut album, *Přikryti stíny*, via their home label, Kabinet Records.

The story of young Klárka, set on Christmas Eve, takes us first into the real world of lavish holiday celebrations and then into the realm of Klárka’s dreams. This version by Canadian choreographer Fernand Nault premiered in 1964 and has come to life every winter since, performed by Les Grands Ballets Canadiens in Montreal. Its highlights include a lively pace and a seamless flow of scenes, but above all, the spectacular set and costume design, which captivates children with its richness and vibrant colors. Join us in a magical world and let yourself be whisked away on a sleigh ride through a snowy landscape. Dance amidst the snowflakes until you reach the Kingdom of Sweets, where the King himself awaits to welcome you. On this fairy-tale journey, alongside the Nutcracker, you will encounter nearly a hundred different characters brought to life by soloists and members of the NdB Ballet, as well as students from the Brno Dance Conservatory and the I. V. Psota Ballet School. A ballet fairy tale for the whole family about the magic of Christmas Eve.

We have decided to prepare a unique Christmas gift for all the audience members of the Brno City Theatre: a Christmas concert to be performed over several shows on the MdB Music Stage.

The story of young Klárka, set on Christmas Eve, takes us first into the real world of lavish holiday celebrations and then into the realm of Klárka’s dreams. This version by Canadian choreographer Fernand Nault premiered in 1964 and has come to life every winter since, performed by Les Grands Ballets Canadiens in Montreal. Its highlights include a lively pace and a seamless flow of scenes, but above all, the spectacular set and costume design, which captivates children with its richness and vibrant colors. Join us in a magical world and let yourself be whisked away on a sleigh ride through a snowy landscape. Dance amidst the snowflakes until you reach the Kingdom of Sweets, where the King himself awaits to welcome you. On this fairy-tale journey, alongside the Nutcracker, you will encounter nearly a hundred different characters brought to life by soloists and members of the NdB Ballet, as well as students from the Brno Dance Conservatory and the I. V. Psota Ballet School. A ballet fairy tale for the whole family about the magic of Christmas Eve.

The story of young Klárka, set on Christmas Eve, takes us first into the real world of lavish holiday celebrations and then into the realm of Klárka’s dreams. This version by Canadian choreographer Fernand Nault premiered in 1964 and has come to life every winter since, performed by Les Grands Ballets Canadiens in Montreal. Its highlights include a lively pace and a seamless flow of scenes, but above all, the spectacular set and costume design, which captivates children with its richness and vibrant colors. Join us in a magical world and let yourself be whisked away on a sleigh ride through a snowy landscape. Dance amidst the snowflakes until you reach the Kingdom of Sweets, where the King himself awaits to welcome you. On this fairy-tale journey, alongside the Nutcracker, you will encounter nearly a hundred different characters brought to life by soloists and members of the NdB Ballet, as well as students from the Brno Dance Conservatory and the I. V. Psota Ballet School. A ballet fairy tale for the whole family about the magic of Christmas Eve.

A Christmas concert by the famous sibling duo and their band.

A spectacular Christmas concert that blends the magic of the holiday season, the splendor of classical music, and the energy of a modern show into one unforgettable evening.

The stage will feature Petr Tomeček and his pan flute, a live orchestra and band, a children’s choir, a solo vocalist, dancers, and a ballet ensemble. All of this is presented within an impressive stage production, enhanced by a grand light show and visual effects displayed on a massive LED screen.

A Christmas concert by the famous sibling duo and their band.

PETR ŘEZNÍČEK: A Selection of Czech and Moravian Carols
MARTIN JAKUBÍČEK: A Thousand Angels
LUKÁŠ SOMMER: The Heavens Have Given Us Dew (cantata based on poems by Vít Slíva)

Kantilénka and Kantiléna
Octopus Vocalis (guest ensemble)
Choirmasters: Veronika Novosádová and Michal Jančík

Kantiléna is a select children’s and youth choir affiliated with the Brno Philharmonic; its three sections comprise around 150 singers aged 5 to 19. It was founded in 1956 as the Šlapanice Children’s Choir at the initiative of Ivan Sedláček, who later served as its artistic director for many years. In 1967, it became a select ensemble under its current name, and since 1984, it has operated under the auspices of the Brno Philharmonic, performing alongside the orchestra at its events. Jakub Klecker led the choir until the 2019/2020 season; since September 2020, Michal Jančík has served as Kantiléna’s artistic director and chief choirmaster. Children prepare for the main choir’s demanding concert schedule in the senior preparatory choir, Kantilénka, while the youngest members sing in Magdalenka—named after former member and current patron of Kantiléna, Magdalena Kožená. Magdalenka is led by Veronika Novosádová, while Kantilénka is led jointly by both choirmasters.

King David had three sons: Jiří, Jakub, and the youngest, Jan. When the king fell ill, Queen Anežka recalled a strange dream from long ago about the existence of miraculous "living water." The hopes and thoughts of the entire kingdom now rest upon this remedy; it falls to the young princes to venture out into the world, attempt to obtain the living water, and save the dying king's life. And as is the way with good fairy tales, the path to a happy ending is winding and fraught with adventure and peril—and, of course, there are three enchanted princesses.

King David had three sons: Jiří, Jakub, and the youngest, Jan. When the king fell ill, Queen Anežka recalled a strange dream from long ago about the existence of miraculous "living water." The hopes and thoughts of the entire kingdom now rest upon this remedy; it falls to the young princes to venture out into the world, attempt to obtain the living water, and save the dying king's life. And as is the way with good fairy tales, the path to a happy ending is winding and fraught with adventure and peril—and, of course, there are three enchanted princesses.

Georg Friedrich Händel: Messiah (excerpts – arias and choruses)
Jakub Jan Ryba: Czech Christmas Mass "Hey, Master!"

Tereza Zimková, soprano
Jarmila Vantuchová, alto
Matúš Šimko, tenor
Tomáš Šelc, bass
Czech Philharmonic Choir of Brno
Choirmaster: Petr Fiala
Czech Virtuosi
Conductor: Jakub Klecker

King David had three sons: Jiří, Jakub, and the youngest, Jan. When the king fell ill, Queen Anežka recalled a strange dream from long ago about the existence of miraculous "living water." The hopes and thoughts of the entire kingdom now rest upon this remedy; it falls to the young princes to venture out into the world, attempt to obtain the living water, and save the dying king's life. And as is the way with good fairy tales, the path to a happy ending is winding and fraught with adventure and peril—and, of course, there are three enchanted princesses.

The story of young Klárka, set on Christmas Eve, takes us first into the real world of lavish holiday celebrations and then into the realm of Klárka’s dreams. This version by Canadian choreographer Fernand Nault premiered in 1964 and has come to life every winter since, performed by Les Grands Ballets Canadiens in Montreal. Its highlights include a lively pace and a seamless flow of scenes, but above all, the spectacular set and costume design, which captivates children with its richness and vibrant colors. Join us in a magical world and let yourself be whisked away on a sleigh ride through a snowy landscape. Dance amidst the snowflakes until you reach the Kingdom of Sweets, where the King himself awaits to welcome you. On this fairy-tale journey, alongside the Nutcracker, you will encounter nearly a hundred different characters brought to life by soloists and members of the NdB Ballet, as well as students from the Brno Dance Conservatory and the I. V. Psota Ballet School. A ballet fairy tale for the whole family about the magic of Christmas Eve.

King David had three sons: Jiří, Jakub, and the youngest, Jan. When the king fell ill, Queen Anežka recalled a strange dream from long ago about the existence of miraculous "living water." The hopes and thoughts of the entire kingdom now rest upon this remedy; it falls to the young princes to venture out into the world, attempt to obtain the living water, and save the dying king's life. And as is the way with good fairy tales, the path to a happy ending is winding and fraught with adventure and peril—and, of course, there are three enchanted princesses.

Verdi’s Aida is one of his masterpieces, featuring all the essential ingredients of Romantic Italian opera: love, jealousy, political intrigue, grand choral scenes, and an inevitable tragic death. Naturally, this requires a superb cast of singers—in this instance, Csilla Boross, Sung Kyu Park, Luis Cansino, Aleš Jenis, and others. This production also marks the first time our company will collaborate with our junior ballet ensemble, NdB2. While Verdi typically selected his own subjects for musical adaptation, the offer for this work came from an external source; the opera was commissioned by the Egyptian Khedive Ismail Pasha, originally for the celebrations marking the opening of the Suez Canal and for the newly built Cairo Opera House. Verdi initially hesitated, but the subject matter—set in ancient Egypt and based on a story by the archaeologist Auguste Mariette—eventually captured his interest. It was not the spectacle that drew him in, but rather the intimate drama concealed beneath layers of political intrigue. The result is a compelling and timeless story filled with powerful music, ranging from famous arias like "Celeste Aida" and the Triumphal March to the opera’s heart-wrenching final quartet. Productions usually focus on the secret lovers Radames and Aida, but what if we were to view the entire story through the eyes of Amneris? Her love for Radames drives her to win him at any cost—unaware that the ultimate price will be human lives, including that of the man she desires.

Long ago, from the land of ice and fire—the land of Norse gods and sagas, of fjords and mythical dragons—rose the Viking realm. A proud and conquering people, a nation of warriors for whom honor meant more than life itself. And here began the story of our hero Johan, a brave Viking… well, not exactly.

Join us on an express journey to Paris, Vienna, and beyond. We will pay tribute to the father of operetta, Jacques Offenbach, and his famous *Orpheus in the Underworld*—complete with the can-can—before heading to Vienna to visit the "King of Waltzes and Operetta," Johann Strauss Jr.; after all, *Die Fledermaus* is as essential to the end of the year as sparkling champagne. Franz Lehár will add a touch of romance with *The Merry Widow*, and, of course, the program will feature Strauss’s most beloved waltzes, polkas, and marches.

Performers include sopranos Veronika Rovná and Andrea Široká, tenor Aleš Briscein, and the Chorus and Orchestra of the Janáček Opera (NdB) under the baton of Chief Conductor Robert Kružík.

There will also be a special surprise in store, and we will waltz our way right through the intermission.
Dance master, choreographer, and *StarDance* judge Jaroslav Kuneš will bring the foyer to life alongside his dance partner.

Long ago, from the land of ice and fire—the land of Norse gods and sagas, of fjords and mythical dragons—rose the Viking realm. A proud and conquering people, a nation of warriors for whom honor meant more than life itself. And here began the story of our hero Johan, a brave Viking… well, not exactly.

Gabriel Eisenstein is due to serve a one-week prison sentence for contempt of court. At home, he pretends to be leaving to serve his time, but instead goes incognito to enjoy a party hosted by the exotic Prince Orlofsky. His wife, Rosalinda, takes advantage of her husband's absence to invite her former lover, Alfred; however, their tryst is interrupted by guards arriving to take her husband to prison.

As we celebrate the bicentennial of Johann Strauss Jr.’s birth, we decided to give both him and you a gift: a new production of his famous operetta *Die Fledermaus* (The Bat). Since its premiere, this witty tale of mistaken identity—and the lesson that even innocent flirting can backfire—has enjoyed great success on leading stages, and not just those dedicated to operetta. *Die Fledermaus* has long been a staple in the repertoires of houses such as the Metropolitan Opera and the Vienna State Opera. Few realize today that it all began with the ill-fated acquisition of the French play *Le Réveillon* by Meilhac and Halévy. After reading it, Max Stein, the director of the Theater an der Wien, decided against staging it as a straight play; instead, he had it adapted into an operetta libretto to offer to Johann Strauss. Strauss was delighted with Richard Genée’s version and completed the score within four months. A comedy brimming with Strauss’s sparkling melodies was created in record time, giving birth to *Die Fledermaus*—a work rightly regarded today as a jewel of classic Viennese operetta.

Long ago, from the land of ice and fire—the land of Norse gods and sagas, of fjords and mythical dragons—rose the Viking realm. A proud and conquering people, a nation of warriors for whom honor meant more than life itself. And here began the story of our hero Johan, a brave Viking… well, not exactly.

LUNETIC
A phenomenon that dominated the airwaves and clubs at the turn of the millennium. Hits like "Má máma," "Ať je co je," and "Chtěl bych tě líbat" will transport you back to a time when we danced the night away to these very tracks.

HOLKI
The girl-group pop sensation—no proper party back then was complete without them. Get ready to hear "Už mi nevolej" and "Mám ráda" once again—songs whose lyrics remain etched in our memories to this day.

VERONA
A dance-music whirlwind from the turn of the millennium. Club anthems like "Náhodou" and "Nejsi sám" are guaranteed to get you out of your seat and back onto the dance floor.

PETR HOLÍK (Rádio Krokodýl)
A voice that is an inseparable part of Brno. This seasoned host from Rádio Krokodýl will guide you through the entire evening, ensuring a fantastic atmosphere from the very first minute—right through the New Year’s toast and the subsequent New Year’s afterparty.

New Year's Eve at Club Fléda.

NINO ROTA: La strada, suite from the ballet
JOE HISAISHI: "Merry-Go-Round of Life" from the film Howl’s Moving Castle
JOHN WILLIAMS: Star Wars (Main Theme)
ERICH WOLFGANG KORNGOLD: Cello Concerto in C major, Op. 37
LEONARD BERNSTEIN: On the Waterfront, suite

Lukáš Polák, cello
Brno Philharmonic
Conductor: Dennis Russell Davies

The Brno Philharmonic was established as the State Philharmonic Brno on January 1, 1956, and held its first concert that very same day (though not yet under its official name). Since then, it has regularly held New Year’s concerts—with the exception of 2021, when the concert was cancelled due to the pandemic. These concerts serve a dual symbolic purpose: they welcome the New Year while also marking the orchestra’s anniversary—which, in 2027, will be its 71st. This time, the celebrations will be dedicated to famous film music.

Why can’t the whole world do without *The Nutcracker* at Christmas? Because Tchaikovsky’s music, combined with the Christmas tale of little Clara, touches the hearts of children and adults alike—taking grown-ups, parents, and grandparents alike back to their own childhood. It is, quite simply, the perfect family Christmas production. The NdB Ballet presents a magical, lavishly staged production—originally from Montreal, Canada—that has met with tremendous success.

Why can’t the whole world do without *The Nutcracker* at Christmas? Because Tchaikovsky’s music, combined with the Christmas tale of little Clara, touches the hearts of children and adults alike—taking grown-ups, parents, and grandparents alike back to their own childhood. It is, quite simply, the perfect family Christmas production. The NdB Ballet presents a magical, lavishly staged production—originally from Montreal, Canada—that has met with tremendous success.

Why can’t the whole world do without *The Nutcracker* at Christmas? Because Tchaikovsky’s music, combined with the Christmas tale of little Clara, touches the hearts of children and adults alike—taking grown-ups, parents, and grandparents alike back to their own childhood. It is, quite simply, the perfect family Christmas production. The NdB Ballet presents a magical, lavishly staged production—originally from Montreal, Canada—that has met with tremendous success.

Join us for a "Step Behind the Curtain" with Gioachino Rossini’s famous opera, *The Barber of Seville*.

This program is designed for the curious—both young and old—who want to learn something new about the world of opera.

Embark on a 70-minute interactive, adventurous, and—above all—entertaining journey into the heart of an opera production, featuring soloists, the chorus, and the orchestra of the Janáček Opera of the National Theatre Brno (NdB).

Who hasn’t heard of Figaro—the barber who not only gives you a great haircut but is also happy to help with your romantic troubles? Enjoy Rossini’s brilliant melodies in a classic, *commedia dell’arte*-style production, brought to you by an Italian creative team.

During this playful workshop, children will be introduced to concepts related to opera and theater, as well as various theatrical professions, and will have the chance to try on authentic stage costumes. The program also includes a short tour of the Janáček Theatre, offering a glimpse behind the scenes and revealing areas not typically accessible to the general audience. A special highlight is a meeting with an opera singer, who will show the children how she prepares for a performance and sing live excerpts from operas for them.

How do you sell a bride? The best way is through a production directed by Ondřej Havelka. Bedřich Smetana’s *The Bartered Bride*—one of the most popular Czech operas—has been in the repertoire of the Brno theatre for twenty years, yet it has lost none of its wit or appeal to audiences.

The "Rak & Rak" program features excerpts of Baroque-style music for solo guitar by Ivan Jelínek, lute music by early masters, and selections from major cycles by Professor Štěpán Rak—such as *In Praise of Tea* (*Chvála čaje*), *Royal Suite* (*Královská suita*), and others. In contrast, his son, Jan-Matěj, presents works that represent a truly unique contribution to the classical guitar repertoire: music by Jaroslav Ježek, songs by R. A. Dvorský, as well as folk and "tramp" (outdoor/campfire) songs. Initially, Jan-Matěj Rak did not share his father’s enthusiasm for classical music; before discovering the works of Jaroslav Ježek, he pursued a path as a singer-songwriter, focusing on genres such as rock ’n’ roll, Mississippi blues, and Jewish or Romani folk music. However, the music of Jaroslav Ježek captivated him to such an extent that he began to further explore the guitar repertoire and refine his technical skills—eventually leading him back to his father’s side to perform this collaborative program. The "Rak & Rak" concert project thus offers a rare opportunity for a diverse and unconventional musical journey.

The legendary fairy tale *Jack Frost* (*Mrazík*) comes to the big screen for the first time, accompanied by a full symphony orchestra.
One of the most beloved fairy tales of all time arrives in the Czech Republic in a truly unique presentation. For the very first time, the legendary *Jack Frost* will be screened on the big screen, accompanied by a symphony orchestra.

Audiences can look forward to the unforgettable story of Nastenka, Ivan, Baba Yaga, and Jack Frost himself—this time presented through a striking fusion of film and live symphonic music. Familiar melodies, performed by a symphony orchestra, will add a new dimension to this cherished tale, creating a magical atmosphere that will captivate both children and adults.