The Poznań Opera House returns to the Berlin Philharmonie for the fourth time. Following the acclaimed concert performances of Moniuszko’s operas, this year’s program presents one of the most significant works of the 20th-century Polish music – Karol Szymanowski’s “King Roger”.

“King Roger” was born out of Szymanowski’s fascination with antiquity, the Orient, and the philosophy of Nietzsche – inspirations drawn from the composer’s travels to Sicily and North Africa. The libretto, written in collaboration with Jarosław Iwaszkiewicz in the turbulent post-war times, offers a spiritual journey into the human soul. Full of contrasts, the composition weaves together oriental melodies, Christian liturgy, and the modern musical language.

The title role will be performed by Szymon Mechliński, an outstanding baritone of the younger generation, recognised on leading stages across Europe and America. Jacek Kaspszyk, one of Poland’s most distinguished conductors of the turn of the century, will lead the performance, and the evening will be hosted by Frederik Hanssen.

Join us for one of the most significant celebrations of Polish culture in 2025. “King Roger” is a meditation on freedom, inner transformation, and the search for harmony – a work that Szymanowski himself considered his greatest achievement.

This project is financed by the Minister of Culture and National Heritage of the Republic of Poland under the Inspiring Culture Programme 2025-2026.