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Sæmundur Fróði Opera Exhibition and Cultural Performance at Tjarnarbíó

Experience traditional Icelandic folklore brought to life through legendary tales, music, and dramatic storytelling.

Delve into the storied life of Sæmundur the Learned in this captivating musical production at Tjarnarbíó. Composed by Þórunn Guðmundsdóttir and performed by the Animato ensemble, the opera traces folklore myths through seven thematic scenes of temptation and morality. Discover a unique blending of theatrical storytelling, vocalists, a choir, and a chamber orchestra.

About Sæmundur Fróði at Tjarnarbíó in Reykjavík

Read curatorial context and practical visitor information for Sæmundur Fróði at Tjarnarbíó in Reykjavík

Exhibition summary

This opera presents the legendary tales of Sæmundur the Learned and his clever escapades with the devil. Through seven scenes, the production follows Sæmundur's life from his studies at the fabled Black School to his final days, blending humor and music to explore themes of temptation and morality.

Curatorial context

The opera 'Sæmundur Fróði' brings the storied interactions between Sæmundur the Learned and the devil to the stage. Sæmundur, a historical figure from 11th-century Iceland, was widely believed in folklore to have studied at the mysterious Black School where the devil himself served as a master. The performance portrays these myths through seven thematic scenes, each reflecting the seven deadly sins that Sæmundur must navigate throughout his life. Featuring music and libretto by Þórunn Guðmundsdóttir and directed by Ágústa Skúladóttir, the opera is performed by the ensemble Animato. The narrative follows Sæmundur's life from his youth abroad to his death at age 77, framing the story with references to the 'Sólarljóð'. With a mix of vocalists, a choir, and a chamber orchestra, the production aims to present these traditional Icelandic legends with a playful yet profound look at the choices between right and wrong.

Admission and ticket notes

Tickets for the performance are available through the official ticketing platform linked on the page. Visitors are encouraged to purchase their tickets online to secure attendance.

Sæmundur Fróði key exhibition facts

Review exhibition status, schedule, venue context, and attribution details for Sæmundur Fróði at Tjarnarbíó in Reykjavík

Venue
Tjarnarbíó
Current status
Open now
Exhibition schedule
Information not currently available
Artist line / attribution
Composed by Þórunn Guðmundsdóttir with orchestration by Hrafnkell Orri Egilsson, the opera is directed by Ágústa Skúladóttir. Musical direction is provided by Sólveig Sigurðardóttir, featuring a cast that includes Hafsteinn Þórólfsson as Sæmundur, alongside Gunnlaugur Bjarnason, Björk Níelsdóttir, and Halldóra Ósk Helgadóttir as various incarnations of the devil.
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