“BAŅUTA”, THE FIRST OPERA IN LATVIAN AND ITS LIBRETTO AS A HISTORICAL NARRATIVE IN THE CONTEXT OF STAGING HISTORY

Abstract

In theatre (including musical theatre genres), the text of the performance is an artefact which can express and echo a historical theme. Additionally, over the course of time, this artistic narrative can experience various changes due to the influence of external factors. This narrative can also consciously or unconsciously influence soci- ety’s view over a longer period. This article is focused on the first opera in the Latvian language “Baņuta” (1920, author of libretto Arturs Krūmiņš, composer Alfrēds Kalniņš). The three versions of this opera (1920, 1937, 1941), especially changes of libretto over time, seven stagings at the Latvian National Opera Theatre (1920, 1937, 1941, 1953, 1968, 1979, 1999) and several concert performances in Latvia and outside (in the 20th century eighties) reflect interesting historical experience. It is worthwhile get to know this story in the context of Latvian national culture in the 20th century and the beginning of the 21st century.