Tiit Kikas: I wanted to write music meant simply to be enjoyed

Estonian composer Tiit Kikas discussed the creation of his new one-act opera "The Happy Prince" in an interview on Vikerraadio. The work was made together with Jaagup Kreem, a longtime collaborator with whom Kikas has produced several albums and concert tours, as well as the 2011 musical "Werewolf" and later the children's musical "Doors." "The Happy Prince" is their second one-act opera together.

Kikas noted that Kreem, like himself, works especially efficiently and quickly under stress, which helped the project come together on time.

Opera since childhood

The composer said he has been immersed in the world of opera since childhood, as attending opera and ballet performances was practically obligatory during his time in music school's preparatory class and later studies. He said this experience toughened him well within the operatic genre.

Working with Mart Mikk

The libretto, based on Oscar Wilde's fairy tale, was adapted for the stage by Mart Mikk, who gave Kikas clear guidance on how to structure the one-act opera. Kikas said his aim was to write music that is beautiful and meant for pleasure, not something audiences need to listen to with a furrowed brow and a serious expression.

The world premiere of "The Happy Prince" will take place on August 14 and 15 in Kohila.