Riga’s Music House “Daile” will host a unique performance this weekend as the internationally acclaimed Latvian Radio choir concludes its 85th anniversary year with “The old Tiss. The Werewolf,” an immersive concert-story exploring a little-known piece of Latvian history [[3]].Based on 18th-century court testimony,the production blends choral music with jazz,electronics,and live videography to recount the story of a man who openly identified as a werewolf-and was accepted by his community as both a healer and a member of society. The performance, set for Saturday, November 29, represents a bold artistic endeavor for the Grammy, Gramophone, and ICMA award-winning choir.
Latvian Radio Choir Concludes Anniversary Year with Immersive Audiovisual Performance
The Latvian Radio Choir, renowned internationally as one of the world’s leading professional choral ensembles, is capping off its 85th anniversary year with a striking event: an audiovisual concert-story titled “The Old Tiss. The Werewolf.” The sole performance in Riga will take place on Saturday, November 29, at the Music House “Daile,” showcasing the choir’s enduring artistry and continued creative exploration. The performance arrives as choral music continues to gain prominence on the global stage.
A Tale of History and Mystery: “The Old Tiss. The Werewolf”
The concert-story is based on a true and intriguing event that unfolded over 300 years ago in the Cesis district court. At its heart is the testimony of an 80-year-old man named Tiss, who revealed he had lived most of his life as a werewolf. Remarkably, the entire community was aware of this fact, as Tiss was also known as a healer and horse whisperer. This historical episode offers a glimpse into a worldview often forgotten today – one where humans are deeply connected to the natural world and where understanding and respecting various forces is paramount. The show invites audiences to explore this ancient knowledge, where humans are just a small part of the larger cycle of life, and encourages reflection on modern humanity’s relationship with nature and spirituality.
Creative Collaboration and Musical Diversity
The production is the result of a collaboration between a large and talented creative team. Directed by Inga Ungure (Tropa), the work features actress Guna Zariņa of the New Riga Theatre in the roles of scenographer and narrator. Joining the Latvian Radio Choir and conductor Kaspars Putniņš – who is also the creator and artistic director of the performance – on stage will be jazz guitarist Matīss Čudars and percussion virtuoso Ivars Arutjunjans. The story will be visually enhanced by live videoprojections from Fricis Kalvelis, a new generation designer and video artist. The performance will feature both Latvian folk songs and compositions created specifically for the show, blending voices and electronics. Composers Mārtiņš Viļums and Matīss Čudars have crafted a unique and impactful soundscape. Viļums’ music stands out for its complexity, microtonality, and overtone singing, evoking the impression of an ancient, divine language, while Čudars’ musical language combines the freedom of jazz with the structure of classical music and ambient moods.
A Celebrated Latvian Ensemble
November is a special month for the Latvian Radio Choir, marking its 85th anniversary. The choir is not only a cultural symbol of Latvia but also an internationally recognized ambassador of the arts. Its work has influenced the direction of choral music worldwide, and its performances have been recognized with prestigious awards, including a Grammy, Gramophone, and ICMA (International Classical Music Award). The choir is concluding its anniversary month with this unique concert-show, offering both high-quality art and a deep emotional and intellectual experience, prompting audiences to contemplate values often overlooked in today’s fast-paced world.
