Venue: Finnish National Opera: Main Hall (Suomen Kansallisoopera: päänäyttämö), Helsinki

Finnish National Opera premieres an emotionally diffuse interpretation of the Karl Ove Knausgård’s novel The Morning Star, with Swedish libretto by Gunilla Hemming and direction by Thomas de Mallet Burgess. 

Christof Loy’s psychological staging returns to the stage of Finnish National Opera, with Swedish soprano Elisabet Strid compelling in the title role. 

Reija Wäre's Édith Piaf: La vie en rose for Finnish National Ballet has a slight commercial gloss which does not detract from the powerful central roles and memorable performances.

A welcome revival of Javier Torres' condensed version of The Sleeping Beauty with Finnish National Ballet provides challenges for the entire company.

Skilfully drawn characters and excellent dancing make this a great alternative to the plethora of Nutcrackers during the festive season.

Krzysztof Pastor's Dracula offers much in both dance and drama, as well as providing a visual feast.

For any opera house, the production of a new Wagner Ring cycle is a huge undertaking and becomes a mission statement. For Finnish National Opera, its mission is to stage an all-Finnish Ring.

Marco Arturo Marelli's 2012 production lacks mystery but puts a fine Golaud centre stage, while Esa-Pekka Salonen ensures superior musical values in the pit.