The Night People

A mayor and investors plan to cut down an old oak forest in order to build cabins. To save the forest and everyone who lives there, youngsters Ciril and Noah take up the fight.

The Night People is a humorous and playful opera which mixes several styles and references. It features famous operas such as Mozart’s The Magic Flute and Bizet’s Carmen along with traditional Norwegian children’s songs, pop music, contemporary music and rhythmic antics. The story is serious and humorous at the same time – it is simply a bird opera that speaks on behalf of Nature.

The village of Indre Kluredal consists of two areas: The local center with the town hall, and an old oak forest where the Night People live in a kind of magical universe. They resemble both birds and humans, and they all love to sing and imitate sounds. The Night People are shy and like things to remain as they have always been. Few know they exist. The mayor of Indre Kluredal, forest owner Kjell, comes into conflict with the Night People. They will lose their lives if the oak forest is cut down to make way for the new cabins and park area Kjell wants to build. The only power the Night People have is a witch who can take away people’s singing voice, making their lives miserable.

Noah and Ciril travel to the capital to ask the queen for help. She is very eager to contribute as she wants to be the people’s queen!

The Night People is an adventurous family opera for everyone from 8 years and up. The opera is simply about deforestation and the need to take care of nature – a well-known theme in today's Norway. But - it is equally about the joy of singing!

A collaboration between Bergen International Festival and Bergen National Opera with Bergen Philharmonic Orchestra, Edvard Grieg Choirs, The Norwegian National Opera & Ballet, Trondheim Symphonic Orchestra & Opera, and Den Nationale Scene.

Illustrasjon: Lukas Hauge Klemsdal