Ibsen’s iconic drama as an opera

Hedda has everything, yet feels trapped. Newly married to the respectable academic Jørgen Tesman, she longs for a life filled with grand gestures. When her former lover Ejlert Løvborg reappears, Hedda sets a dangerous game of power, jealousy and manipulation in motion. Her attempts to maintain control over those around her leave a trail of destruction in their wake.

The iconic and complex protagonist of Henrik Ibsen’s eponymous theatrical classic now takes to the operatic stage. Composer Vasco Mendonça and director Nina Spijkers have adapted the play into a contemporary opera, receiving its world premiere at Dutch National Opera.

Conductor Corinna Niemeyer leads the musicians of Het Muziek in her debut at Dutch National Opera. Mezzo-soprano Cecilia Molinari takes on the powerful title role of Hedda. She previously impressed audiences with us in Giulio Cesare and Idomeneo. Tenor Miles Mykkanen returns as Ejlert Løvborg following his acclaimed performances in Die Fledermaus (2024) and We Are The Lucky Ones (2025). Baritone Thomas Oliemans takes on the role of Judge Brack.

Hedda Gabler is part of the Opera Forward Festival.