Falling in love is a circus—bring on the clowns

The Summer Night Smiles Three Times. For young lovers, for the foolish, and for the old who know too much. Sondheim’s classic musical offers an elegant blend of romance, humor, and insight into human nature. Here, the twists and turns of love are reflected in a distorting mirror, showing that people in love are just as silly now as they ever were.

Old feelings flare up and new relationships blossom. With gentle Bergman-esque irony and musical brilliance, the film depicts how love can lead us astray, but also bring us closer together. At the heart of it all is Ingmar Bergman himself, reminiscing about his own 1955 film.

Stephen Sondheim based his musical on Bergman’s film and titled it *A Little Night Music*, after Mozart’s *Eine kleine Nachtmusik*. It is known for its sophisticated music, which evokes the Scandinavian summer night, and its characteristic romantic comedy style, full of refined melodies and ensemble numbers—among which “Send in the Clowns” has become a hit, popularized by artists such as Judy Collins, Frank Sinatra, Barbra Streisand, and others.

Director Dan Turdén leads an artistic team featuring some of Sweden’s best-known opera singers, musical theater performers, and actors, including Gunilla Backman, Ola Eliasson, and Suzanne Reuter.

The production is a collaboration between Norrlandsoperan and Folkoperan, and marks a long-awaited return to the musical genre on the Norrlandsoperan stage.

Hotel Offer

Visiting from out of town? Here you’ll find great deals on accommodations in connection with our performances. Stay in style, enjoy great food, and wake up well-rested before heading home!

Three-Course Opera Menu

Make your evening perfect with a three-course opera menu at Nova’s restaurant.