About the Opera

"Innocence" is an evocative opera in five acts composed by renowned Finnish artist Kaija Saariaho, with a libretto penned by Sofi Oksanen in Finnish and later translated by Aleksi Barrière. This powerful work was co-commissioned by esteemed institutions such as the Aix-en-Provence Festival, the Dutch National Opera, the Finnish National Opera, and the San Francisco Opera. It's world premiere took place on July 3, 2021, at the Aix-en-Provence Festival, under the skilled baton of conductor Susanna Mälkki and the direction of Simon Stone. The opera weaves together the haunting narratives of a wedding in Helsinki during the 2000s and a tragic school shooting that occurred a decade earlier, presenting a gripping exploration of human experiences and societal issues. Described as a thriller, "Innocence" promises to leave a profound impact on its audience, challenging them to reflect on the complexities of life.

About the Speaker

Dr Paul Smith is a Sydney-based composer and researcher renowned for his innovative work on opera and compositions for the toy piano. With a Doctorate of Creative Arts from Western Sydney University, he merges academic rigor with artistic expression, pushing the boundaries of contemporary music. As the co-artistic director of Blush Opera, Paul is committed to creating inclusive and diverse performances that resonate with a wide audience. His unique approach to composition not only showcases his versatility but also reflects his dedication to exploring new musical landscapes. Through his research and creative endeavours, Paul contributes significantly to the Australian arts scene, inspiring both emerging and established artists.

Sydney Opera Society - Talk on Kaija Saariaho's "Innocence" by Dr Paul Smith.

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