The Maid of Orleans

A monumental grand opéra 

Tchaikovsky based his opera on the play of the same name by Friedrich Schiller. Just as in the play, Joan’s determination is put to the test when she unexpectedly falls in love with the enemy knight, Lionel. With this work, Tchaikovsky created his own version of French grand opéra, in which large-scale historical themes are explored in an impressive way. 

A contemporary perspective 

Tcherniakov places Joan’s struggle in a modern context. In his staging, the combative Joan is at the heart of the storm, constantly watched and criticised by the powers surrounding her. In doing so, he sheds new light on the timeless story of a woman who chooses her own path in a hostile world. 

A strong cast and musical debut 

Conductor Valentin Uryupin makes his debut at Dutch National Opera, leading the Netherlands Philharmonic. The demanding title role will be performed by Elena Stikhina, who previously shone in Madama Butterfly and Suor Angelica in Amsterdam. Tenor Allan Clayton appears as King Charles VII, while baritones Andrey Zhilikhovsky and Vladislav Sulimsky make their house debut as Lionel and Dunois. Bass John Relyea also makes his debut, in the role of the Archbishop.