Ero the Joker
Opera
Jakov Gotovac

Ero the Joker

CNT Split Opera

Hailed as one of the finest Slavic comic operas, this captivating production has enthralled audiences for decades. Set in the beautiful backdrop of the Dalmatian hinterland, follow the journey of Mića, a young man from a wealthy rural family, as he disguises himself as the enigmatic Ero to test the authenticity of his lover's feelings. With a rich musical score, vibrant dances, and an exceptional libretto by Milan Begović, Ero the Joker is a delightful celebration of love and forgiveness.

The opera is performed in Croatian without subtitles.

Transfer to Bene (Marjan) performance location: A free bus (St. Frane - Banovina - Villa Dalmatia - Bene) for the audience departs at 20:30 in front of St. Frane church on Split Riva. Entry to the bus is possible upon presentation of a purchased ticket. Regular bus line 12 (St. Frane - Bene) departs every day at 20:00 and 20:15.

Ero the Joker

Jakov Gotovac's opera Ero the Joker has long been hailed as one of the finest Slavic comic operas, solidifying its place as the composer's most acclaimed work. Since its debut in 1935, it has become a staple in the repertoire of all Croatian national theatres. Productions staged on international platforms have consistently praised Ero as a representative symbol of Croatian opera, showcasing its homeland's vibrant songs and dances through the seamless fusion of lyrics and music.

The opera's excellent libretto, penned by Milan Begović, brims with humorous verses and complements the musical elements flawlessly. With its chromatic musical scale, opulent orchestration, spirited rhythms, and melodic vocal lines, Ero captivates listeners, transporting them to the world of the Dalmatian hinterland. At the heart of the narrative lies the protagonist, Mića, a young man from a prosperous rural family. Following his mother's advice, he masquerades as destitute in his quest for a suitable bride. Assuming the identity of Ero, a visitor from another realm, Mića seeks to test the sincerity of his chosen love interest, Đula. Despite deceiving many along the way, Mića ultimately finds forgiveness and wins the heart of his beloved.

The opera's dynamic finale serves as an ode to the rural way of life, where the music, infused with the essence of Dalmatia, takes center stage and resonates with grandeur.

Conductor

Hari Zlodre

Director

Krešimir Dolenčić

Scenographer

Dinka Jeričević

Costume Designer

Danica Dedijer

Choreographer

Luciano Perić

Choirmaster

Veton Marevci

Light Designer

Zoran Mihanović

Assistant Choreographer

Čiča Branka Trumbić

Concertmaster

Valter Lovričević

Accompanist

Tetjana Borčagivska, Ana Šabašov

Stage Manager

Mark Anton Gančević

Prompter

Irina Padovan

Mića

Stjepan Franetović

Marko

Mate Akrap

Doma

Margareta Matišić

Đula 

Antonija Teskera

Miller Sima

Marko Lasić

Shepherd boy

Tea Požgaj

 

Zbor i Orkestar HNK Split 

 

KUD “Jedinstvo”