Leonard Bernstein

CANDIDE

Written by Leonard Bernstein, “Candide” is one of the world's most-loved pieces of musical theatre, based on a philosophical satire of the same name by Voltaire. How to hold on to hope in a world so full of injustice, and is blind wisdom of optimism or folly – these are the questions touched upon by the tale of the naïve Candide, somewhat satirical and biting, yet always relevant. 

The piece premiered on Broadway on 1st December, 1956, and is defined as “a musical with the character of an operetta” – so “Candide” has something from both worlds: the musical flight typical of operetta and the sincerity and glamour of the musical. 

It is the fourth year of the talents at Dailes Theatre 10th Actors’ Studio studying at Jāzeps Vītols Latvian Academy of Music. These students are learning not only acting, but also intensively working on their music and dance skills. The young performers, now in their fourth study year, have already proved themselves on the stage of the Dailes Theatre.

“The Wild Swans” (2024), the musical by Raimonds Pauls, in which the students have been entrusted with leading roles, was nominated both for the “Kilograms kultūras 2024” award in the theatre category and the national theatre awards “Spēlmaņu nakts” audience award. This is the second time these new professionals work with Mārtiņš Meiers, Dailes Theatre actor and director – the first time being the musical piece “Puss in Boots” (2026), a firm audience favourite.

Co-produced with Cēsis Art Festival.