It is a special pleasure to announce the 12th Operosa Montenegro Opera Festival, which will take place from July 1 to 11, with a lavish program that combines top opera and spectacular settings, from the romantic coast of Luštica Bay, through the historic walls of the fortresses of Forte Mare and Kanli Tower, all the way to the exclusive environment of Mamula Island.
This year’s festival features a carefully curated program designed to captivate both seasoned opera enthusiasts and those experiencing the magic of opera for the first time – promising a truly unforgettable summer celebration of music and culture.
Now a hallmark of the region’s cultural calendar, the festival celebrates its deep commitment to the beauty of opera, artistic excellence and cross-cultural collaboration.
The 2025 edition brings two opera productions, including Puccini’s beloved “Bohemia” and a magical adaptation of Mozart’s “Magic Flute” for children.
The program also includes a spectacular concert by the international award-winning Chamber Choir from Ljubljana on Mamula Island, performances by young artists and the now famous master workshop “Hanikajnen” for young budding singers.
FESTIVAL PROGRAM
Opening of the “La Boheme” festival, Tuesday, July 1, 9 p.m. , Luštica Bay
The festival opens with Puccini’s famous opera La Bohème, one of the most moving love stories in the history of opera.
Starring Antonia Vučinović as Mimi and Stevan Karanac as Rodolfo. The direction is signed by Lada Shylenko, and the scenography and costume design are jointly done by Lada Shylenko and Katherine Haataja.
“La Boheme”, Thursday, July 3, 8:00 p.m. Forte Mare
The audience is invited to a special lecture before the performance, which will be held by professor M.Sc.Dobrila Popović, musicologist.
This special lecture will prepare us for the Bohemians by offering an insight into the history of opera and Puccini’s connection with Montenegro.
Night on Mamula Island, Saturday, July 5, 8:00 p.m., Mamula Island
“Glorious Voices” concert & tasting of delicacies
An exclusive concert by the internationally awarded choir from Ljubljana, conducted by composer and conductor Ambrož Čopi.
Located in the historic Mamula Fort, this extraordinary event offers an enchanting atmosphere that combines natural acoustics with the stunning vocal power of the famous KGBL Chamber Choir.
Thanks to the partnership with the island of Mamula, after the concert, visitors will be able to enjoy tasting top delicacies.
“The Magic Flute” for children, Sunday, July 6, 8:00 p.m., Luštica Bay
“The Magic Flute” for children, Tuesday, July 8, 8:00 p.m., Dvorana Park
With a special commitment to nurturing future generations, this year’s festival presents a specially adapted production of Mozart’s Magic Flute — performed in the Montenegrin language and adapted to a young audience.
Starring Milica Lalošević as Pamina, young Kristina Perković as Papagena and Milica Lolić as the Queen of the Night.
The Operosa chamber orchestra under the baton of Uroš Ugarković takes part in the performance.
With colorful costumes and colorful characters, this will be a perfect experience for the whole family. Let’s not forget – admission is free for children.
Celebration of young talents
Operosa continues its mission of supporting young artists through performances and mentoring opportunities:
Wednesday, July 9, Herceg Novi Music School, 9:00 p.m
Concert of Operosa award winners – Katarina Katanić (mezzo-soprano) and Anastasija Ćorac (soprano), accompanied by Petra Božović on piano.
Thursday, July 10, City Music Pavilion, Herceg Novi, 9:00 p.m
Performances by the rising stars of the Montenegrin opera scene: Teodore Bajić and Zare Dobričanin accompanied by Petr Vujić on piano.
Thursday and Friday, July 10 and 11, Institute dr. Simo Milošević, Igalo: Master class and recital Hanikainen
In cooperation with the Hanikainen Association and the Embassy of Finland, the Operosa Festival is hosting a master class for young singers, Hanikainen.
This professional development program, led by internationally recognized vocal pedagogue Catherine Hataja (MAEd) and pianist Petra Božović, will culminate in a concert and cocktail party on Friday, July 11 at 6:00 p.m., showcasing the extraordinary talents of the participants.
A unique experience
– Operosa offers more than just opera – it is an invitation to experience music in conversation with the rich natural and historical heritage of Montenegro – says Catherine Hataja, founder of Operosa.
–From the echo of arias over ancient fortresses to the mentoring of stars of the future, the festival creates a magical world where tradition meets innovation-.
Regardless of whether you are an experienced opera lover or a curious beginner, Operosa 2025 invites you to experience eleven days of music, beauty and cultural immersion on the sun-drenched Adriatic coast.
The music doesn’t stop here — more stunning opera concerts are coming to the Luštica Bay stage this August.
Venues:
Lustica Bay
Forte Mare Fortress,
Mamula Island,
Kanli Tower Fortress,
Herceg Novi Music School
City Music Pavilion, Herceg Novi
Institute of dr. Simo Milošević, Igalo
More information about the Operosa festival, via the link: https://operosa.org/
