Jenůfa
Opera in three acts
Music and Libretto by Leoš Janáček
Tradition, tragedy, and hidden truths in a Moravian village.
This landmark Czech opera is a captivating work of realism and emotional depth, following young Jenůfa as she endures hardship, love, and the unyielding expectations of her village. Central to the drama is the Kostelnička, Jenůfa’s stepmother – played by world renowned soprano Karita Mattila in her Sarasota Opera debut – whose desperate attempt to protect her stepdaughter leads to tragic consequences.
March | 06 - March | 21
Sung In:
Czech
With Translations In:
English
Cast & Staff
Performing
Mar 6, 9, 14, 18, 21
Performing
Mar 6, 9, 14, 18, 21
Števa Buryja
Victor Starsky
Performing
Mar 6, 9, 14, 18, 21
Performing
Mar 6, 9, 14, 18, 21
Starek
Riley Findley
Performing
Mar 6, 9, 14, 18, 21
Performing
Mar 6, 9, 14, 18, 21
Performing
Mar 6, 9, 14, 18, 21
Performing
Mar 6, 9, 14, 18, 21
Costume Designer
Howard Tsvi Kaplan
Facts about Jenůfa
- Composer & Premiere: Leoš Janáček; premiered in 1904 in Brno and later revised for wider acclaim in 1916
- Story: Set in a Moravian village, the opera follows Jenůfa, whose life is upended by love, jealousy, and a devastating family secret
- Emotional Core: Her stepmother, the Kostelnička, commits a tragic act in an attempt to protect Jenůfa’s future
- Musical Style: Janáček’s score is known for its vivid orchestration and speech-inspired vocal lines that heighten realism
- Themes: Explores forgiveness, moral conflict, community pressure, and redemption
- Vocal Highlights: Powerful roles for dramatic soprano (Jenůfa) and mezzo-soprano/soprano (Kostelnička)
- Setting & Atmosphere: Rooted in Czech folk life, with a strong sense of place and cultural identity
What should I wear to the opera?
You are encouraged to dress in whatever way you feel most comfortable. Some people like to make it special by dressing up. Others prefer to be more casual. Opening nights of each opera tend to be a bit more dressy (you will see more tuxes and long dresses) and matinees a bit more casual.
One suggestion: it does tend to be cool in the theater (especially in the orchestra section) and so a sweater or wrap might be helpful.
Where do I park?
There is limited on-street parking near the Sarasota Opera House. There are several parking garages in close proximity to the theater, including the Palm Avenue Garage (1289 N. Palm Ave.) which is directly behind the Sarasota Opera House.
Valet parking is also available for all evening and weekend matinee performances. Valet parking is complimentary for subscribers and donors. Otherwise the cost is $10.
For more information please visit https://www.sarasotaopera.org/parking.
Content Advisory
The story references a tragic act of violence that may be distressing to some audiences.
Where is the Sarasota Opera House?
The historic Sarasota Opera House is in downtown Sarasota at 61 N. Pineapple Street.
For detailed directions, please visit https://www.sarasotaopera.org/directions.
Are there refreshments at the theater?
There are concessions at the Opera House which sell a variety of beverages, snacks, and sandwiches. The lobby is open 1 hour and 15 minutes before a performance, and the courtyard is open 1 hour and 45 minutes before a performance. We encourage you to come early to enjoy refreshments. No food or drink are allowed inside the auditorium.