Barabbas
Barabbas is an opera by Andrei Maksimov, with a libretto by Helen Daniels, exploring themes of revolution, sacrifice, and identity. The work had its world premiere at Biel Volkshaus on April 14–15, performed by the HKB Chamber Orchestra under the baton of Igor Andreev. This fully staged production brought together singers, dancers, actors, and instrumentalists to depict the well-known story of resistance against Pilate’s rule, culminating in Barabbas’s unexpected salvation.
Preparations for the opera began in December 2022, with musical rehearsals and the development of a staging concept. Director Mira Alkhovik centered the production around a black cloth dividing the stage, symbolizing exclusion and the search for belonging. She describes Barabbas as a story not tied to any nationality but to universal human struggles. “These people speak of freedom and happiness, yet they don’t know where to find it. In the end, someone arrives who shows them that true value lies within themselves—beyond masks, prejudices, and imposed identities.” With its timeless themes and striking visual symbolism, Barabbas proves that stories from the past still hold deep relevance today.
Preparations for the opera began in December 2022, with musical rehearsals and the development of a staging concept. Director Mira Alkhovik centered the production around a black cloth dividing the stage, symbolizing exclusion and the search for belonging. She describes Barabbas as a story not tied to any nationality but to universal human struggles. “These people speak of freedom and happiness, yet they don’t know where to find it. In the end, someone arrives who shows them that true value lies within themselves—beyond masks, prejudices, and imposed identities.” With its timeless themes and striking visual symbolism, Barabbas proves that stories from the past still hold deep relevance today.
