Silent Night at The Atlanta Opera

Composer: Kevin Puts Librettist: Mark Campbell Premiere Performance: November 12, 2011—Minnesota Opera

Silent Night is the powerful, true account of the spontaneous Christmas truce between French, British, and German soldiers during World War I. Based on the film “Joyeux Noël,” the story takes place on Christmas Eve, the opposing forces lay down their weapons, come together around a makeshift tree to sing carols, and play soccer matches. The soldiers’ peaceful actions are reprimanded by their commanders, but cast a lasting light on the goodness of humanity in the face of war.

Artistic Director Tomer Zvulun will direct, and Principal Conductor Iván López Reynoso will conduct. Zvulun previously directed the debut of this co-production (with the Wexford Festival Opera and Glimmerglass Opera) at the esteemed Wexford Festival Opera to critical acclaim, winning the Audience Choice Award and Best Opera Award at the Irish Times Theatre Awards. The original production won the Pulitzer Prize for Music in 2012.

Content & Sensory Advisories: Strobing/flashing lights, theatrical haze, loud noises, gunshots, and simulated violence.