How to prepare for and come to the opening concert of Unexpected Baroque
06 / 07 / 2025
Embark on a journey of transformation
06 / 07 / 2025
Somewhere between dream and ritual, between forest and water, between the world that passes away and the world that appears. Unexpected Baroque is a staged baroque concert that transforms the landscape into a theatrical space and invites the audience on a journey of transformation. We bring you a behind-the-scenes look from director and writer Vilma Bořkovec of RUN OPERUN.
You’ve been with RUN OPERUN since the beginning, what would you say has been your main focus over the years?
Our collective has been proving for ten years that the genre of opera does not belong in the golden frames of a museum. We know how to get people to see opera who wouldn’t otherwise come. I’m thrilled about that, and it’s also the driving force behind why we try to do our work to the best of our ability. We are bringing contemporary themes to opera, and even by the response we see that it really touches people. For better or for worse. We leave emotions.
If you had to describe RUN OPERUN in three words, what would they be?
Courageous. Contemporary. Searching.
What is specific to your position – opera directing? How does it differ from traditional directing, if at all?
I guess it depends on the project. Generally, an opera is planned well in advance before rehearsals begin. Because of the music, we can’t completely afford to change large parts of the production during rehearsal week. Sometimes it’s a little unfree. There are so many artistic components that meet in opera that it takes a lot of planning. Anyway, it really depends on the production or on the project. Now, I’ve described a kind of typical theatre rehearsal, but I like to do more alternative projects where maybe I’m looking for more creative freedom.
What do you think of when you say Baroque?
Flamboyance and emotionality. Contrast of light and shadow. The Holy Trinity Column in Olomouc comes to mind.
This is the first time you are cooperating with Festival Krumlov with RUN OPERUN? What do you take away from it so far? What are you looking forward to the most? What is the biggest challenge so far?
I’m very glad that the festival appealed to us. It’s a great challenge for me and the whole team and we really enjoy it. I’m most looking forward to the rehearsals. Once we get on set, so to speak, that’s where we’re at home and our favorite ride begins. The biggest challenge will definitely be the weather, as the whole show takes place outside. I want to give a shout out to the entire technical team here, as the concert is quite challenging overall and technically. But I could praise everyone like this… They are all very professional and it’s an honor to be part of it.
Video, editing: Filip Zoubek, photo: Kateřina Sobičková
If you had to describe the opening concert of Unexpected Baroque in three words, what would they be?
Expectations. Revelation. Euphoria.
The opening concert, Unexpected Baroque, will take place on Friday 11 July at 21:00 on the lake and in the castle park.
Contacts:
- Mahulena, Vondrášková, PR & Marketing, RUN OPERUN, mahulena@runoperun.cz, 721 302 969
- Štěpánka Filipová, PR Manager & Spokeswoman, Festival Krumlov, filipova@festivalkrumlov.cz, 724 302 802
