Following A Midsummer Night’s Dream in 2024, the KNO once again brings the musical world of Benjamin Britten to the stage. One of Britten’s most acclaimed works, embraced by both audiences and critics alike, Peter Grimes is inspired by The Borough, a narrative poem by the English poet George Crabbe. Premiered in the UK in 1945, the opera has since established itself as a cornerstone of modern English opera. With this production, the KNO continues to present contemporary opera for the third consecutive year, steadily introducing audiences to modern operatic works. Taking the podium is British pianist and conductor Alexander Joel, widely praised for his ability to reveal the rich nuances embedded in the score. His conducting is expected to guide the work’s complex emotional landscape with clarity. The production is directed by Julien Chavaz, who drew attention in 2024 for capturing moments of warmth in Die tote Stadt. Returning for another collaboration, he promises an even more immersive theatrical experience.​

In a small seaside village, a young apprentice who had gone out to fish with Peter Grimes tragically dies in an accident. Ellen, a widow and Peter’s companion, comforts him. A series of incidents causes the townsfolk to turn against him. Still dreaming of a happy life with Ellen, Peter takes on a new apprentice. While talking with the boy, John, Ellen notices a bruise on his neck and confronts Peter. Enraged, he strikes her across the face. Furious, the villagers storm into Peter’s house. Peter tells John to hide near the cliffside. With a piercing scream ringing out, John slips off the cliff. Unable to find them, the villagers drink and revel boisterously, while their suspicions snowball. Ellen and Captain Balstrode discover Peter wandering, but he is no longer in his right mind. The captain urgently urges Peter to escape by boat.