Premiere of Szymanowski's "King Roger" at the Stanisław Moniuszko Grand Theatre in Poznań

The premiere of Karol Szymanowski's operatic mystery King Roger, directed by Krzysztof Cicheński, will take place at the Grand Theater in Poznań on April 24, 2026, at 7.00 pm. Jacek Kaspszyk is the musical director of the production.

King Roger – one of the most significant operas of the 20th century, characterized by poetic symbolism, a unique form of expression, and extraordinary tonal colors – was born from Szymanowski's fascination with antiquity, the Orient, and Nietzschean philosophy. This work, full of contrasts, blends oriental melodies with a modern musical language. The production is directed by Krzysztof Cicheński, who proposes a staging that merges mythical Sicily with a modern "cabinet of the soul". In this interpretation, Roger is identified with Karol Szymanowski himself, confronting his own repressed desires.

One hundred years after its premiere in Warsaw, the masterpiece will be presented at the Grand Theater in Poznań, being the second production of the work in the history of this venue.

Under the baton of Jacek Kaspszyk, the performance will feature the Choir, Orchestra, and Ballet of the Grand Theatre in Poznań, the Poznań Cathedral Choir, and soloists. The title role will be performed by Szymon Mechliński.

Media Patronage: Polish Music Information Centre POLMIC.

Details: https://opera.poznan.pl/en/krol-roger