Polish National Opera in co-production with Metropolitan Opera, New York

‘Do not get used to our suffering’ implored Olena Zelenska in 2024, reminding the world about the ongoing war in Ukraine. The Mothers of Kherson is a response to the appeal. It was co-produced by the Teatr Wielki – Polish National Opera and the Metropolitan Opera in New York, two institutions that have been actively supporting the embattled nation since the beginning of Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022. One of their joint projects is the Ukrainian Freedom Orchestra led by conductor Keri-Lynn Wilson, who has also been involved in the process of developing the new opera.

The creators, American playwright George Brant and Ukrainian composer Maxim Kolomiiets, both with extensive opera experience under their belt, sought a story that would convey the magnitude of Ukrainian suffering and resonate with the audience on a universal level. The opera focuses on a practice employed since the beginning of the Russian invasion: mass abductions and deportations of Ukrainian children. The libretto, however, is only loosely inspired by facts. It follows different women fighting to recover their abducted children, highlighting their common characteristic. They all lost their daughters after the children were taken to Crimea by deceit. Although the distance between Kherson and the peninsula is not far, due to the raging war, their mothers must travel thousands of kilometres, taking a roundabout way to the camp where the children are held. Will they be able to retrieve their missing children?

The production is directed by Barbara Wysocka, who made her opera debut at the Teatr Wielki and now pursues a successful European career. She interprets The Mothers of Kherson as a politically engaged documentary opera that explores fundamental themes, including suffering, oppression, parental love, and the power of community.

This is an opera responding to the challenges of our times. It explores an acutely painful topic, giving voice to tormented women and highlighting the suffering of children. While emphasising the tragic impact of grand history on individuals, the piece also speaks to human determination and the ability to sacrifice in the name of higher values.