In a close-knit coastal community, fisherman Peter Grimes (Joachim Bäckström) is acquitted of murdering his young apprentice. But although the court has pronounced him innocent, the local inhabitants continue to judge him. The only person who is on Peter’s side is Ellen Orford (Matilda Sterby). She arranges for him to get a new apprentice to help with the heavy fishing work. Gossip about Peter Grimes and his ill-treatment of the new apprentice is stoked by Mrs. Sedley (Katarina Giotas), who incites a persecution of Peter with devastating consequences.
The real protagonists are the condemning inhabitants of the local community and the relentless sea. The music is suffused with the moods of the sea, by violent conflict and empathy for Peter Grimes, who may or may not be guilty.
This production, inspired by the Swedish west coast, is directed by British award winning director and video designer Netia Jones. Jones is acclaimed for her opera productions in which atmospheric video projections are a hallmark feature. Peter Grimes is conducted by Christoph Gedschold, Chief Conductor of the Copenhagen Phil.
