Savonlinna Opera Festival attracts 61,000 visitors in Finland

The 2024 Savonlinna Opera Festival attracted approximately 61,000 visitors. Ticket sales increased by three percent compared to the previous year, according to a statement from the festival. About 10 percent of ticket buyers were international visitors, with the majority coming from the Nordic countries, Germany, the United Kingdom, and Switzerland.

Seventeen percent of attendees were first-time visitors to the festival. Highlights included Karita Mattila’s debut performance, Mozart’s “Don Giovanni,” a guest appearance by the National Theatre of Prague, and Kaija Saariaho’s “Adriana Mater.” All performances of Verdi’s “Nabucco” were nearly sold out in advance, drawing a total audience of 17,000 and earning the title of the season’s favorite opera based on social media feedback.

Throughout the six weeks, the festival featured 85 performances, concerts, and events around Olavinlinna. Next year, the Opera Festival will celebrate the 550th anniversary of Olavinlinna. Ticket sales for next year’s event have already begun.