Exploring the Grand Premiere of 'Festen' at London's Royal Opera House | Theatre Review

Decorum descends into chaos in a new opera by Mark-Anthony Turnage. Thomas Vinterberg’s cult film is transformed into a bold new opera at London’s Royal Ballet & Opera House - When a wealthy hotel owner gathers friends and loved ones to celebrate his 60th birthday, his children must confront the pain of their past – and the man responsible.

‘Festen’ is a brand new opera, it explores plenty of dark themes but is able to balance the emotional heavy topics with light hearted humour. The opera is powerful, layered with strong ensemble chorus’ and accompanied by a commanding orchestra.

The story of “Festen” aka "The Celebration" was originally an impressive directorial debut of the young Danish filmmaker Thomas Vinterberg and popularised Dogme 95 - an avant-garde filmmaking movement from 1995 to 2005. Films made to the style of this era had to follow a strict set of rules, named "Vow of Chastity". The movement championed traditional values of filmmaking and excluded the use of elaborate special effects or technology. Dogme 95 has had a major impact on independent and low-budget filmmaking, and changed how narrative films are produced.

A story of grief, a story of ignorance, a performance with deep emotion and utter turmoil festering under the surface.

‘Festen’ has been reimagined from screen to stage in a spectacular, powerful piece of opera. This was my first experience of an opera and I was blown away by the power of the casts voices and the spectacle of the performance, the theatre was filled with immense awe and shock as we all witnessed a grand, unforgettable display of tension. 

I was moved by the sheer elegance and glamour of the piece, the set design was particularly beautiful to watch. Designed to emulate art deco, the sets were stylish and eye catching to say the least. The furniture and props were specially chosen to create a new world, each object acted as a moment in history; particularly the significance of the sofa. 

The detail made the performance all the more enjoyable and raw, along with the formidable performances from the cast. At some moments we would have three scenes playing out in front of us, divided into three sections and queued with lighting. These intimate scenes would be juxtaposed with grand moments, every character would fill the space and their voices would fill the theatre through large scale party scenes and dance numbers. 

Each character on stage was telling a story, whether they were in the back of the party or the front storyteller - every member of the cast was utterly engrossed into the story, breathing life into this dark tale. 

The subject matter is heavy, touching on strong themes throughout and the impact those themes can have on family and relationships. This story doesn’t shy away from the uncomfortable, instead it sits in it and enjoys the atmosphere. ‘Festen’ wants to make you feel uncomfortable and it succeeded - in the best way possible. The show encourages to laugh when you shouldn’t and takes you on a journey of emotions - one minute you’re chuckling and the next you’re paralysed with anxiety and fear. 

‘Festen’ was a grand affair, immersing the audience into a world of denial and ignorance, as the story unfolded I was in shock and I was taken on a journey of emotion that has been engrained in my memory. 

I cannot recommend this piece of theatre enough, whether you’re a first time opera viewer like me or a seasoned visitor. This performance speaks to a vast audience, if you’re familiar with the inspiration, Dogme 95 or not, it doesn’t matter - anyone can sit down and enjoy this marvellous piece of theatre. 

If I had to describe this show in three words it would be - powerful impactful and dark. 

Probe Points 5/5