We warmly invite you to celebrate the 70th birthday of Štefan Margita at Castle Blatna.
On 1 July 2026, the English park of Castle Blatna will come alive with an extraordinary evening of music. The gala concert Štefan Margita 70: Opera Gala marks a major milestone in the career of one of today’s most distinguished tenors. Audiences can look forward to a captivating programme of operatic arias and duets performed by Štefan Margita alongside acclaimed soprano Jana Šrejma Kačírková. The evening will be accompanied by Filharmonie Hradec Králové under the baton of conductor Jan Kučera, promising an exceptional artistic experience.
Set within the romantic surroundings of the castle park, home to freely roaming deer and peacocks, the concert offers a truly unique atmosphere. The combination of world-class operatic performances and the elegance of this historic water castle will create an unforgettable summer evening filled with emotion, passion and musical brilliance.
Štefan Margita
Štefan Margita is one of the leading figures on the international operatic stage. Born in Košice, he has appeared at world-renowned venues such as La Scala, the Royal Opera House Covent Garden and the Metropolitan Opera, collaborating with some of the most respected conductors of our time. He is particularly celebrated for his interpretations of Leoš Janáček’s operas, as well as for his performances in works by Alban Berg, Benjamin Britten and Richard Wagner. His repertoire spans a wide range of styles, from classical to 20th-century music, and he regularly performs at major festivals and concert halls worldwide.
Jana Šrejma Kačírková
Jana Šrejma Kačírková is a prominent figure in the Czech operatic scene. A graduate of the Prague Conservatoire, she gained early recognition through awards at the Antonín Dvořák International Singing Competition. Since 2010, she has been a principal member of the National Moravian-Silesian Theatre in Ostrava, performing leading roles such as Violetta (La traviata), Mařenka (The Bartered Bride) and the title role in Anna Bolena. She is also a regular guest at the National Theatre in Prague and other major Czech venues, and has appeared at international festivals, earning critical acclaim and multiple prestigious awards, including two Thalia Awards.
Jan Kučera
Jan Kučera is a distinguished conductor, composer and pianist. He collaborates with leading orchestras and opera houses, and his repertoire encompasses both classical masterpieces and contemporary works. He is highly regarded for his musical sensitivity, energy and versatility.
Hradec Králové Philharmonic Orchestra
Filharmonie Hradec Králové is one of the Czech Republic’s leading symphony orchestras. Based in Hradec Králové, it performs regularly both at home and internationally. Known for its broad and versatile repertoire, the orchestra collaborates with renowned conductors and soloists and enjoys a strong reputation for artistic excellence.
We warmly invite you to celebrate this remarkable anniversary at Castle Blatna.
Practical information for visitors
VIP ticket: The VIP ticket includes a reserved seat with a blanket and a welcome drink on the western terrace of Rejt Palace, offering stunning views over the castle park before the concert (from 18:30). The price is 1,590 CZK, and VIP seating is marked in dark blue on the seating plan.Discounted tickets: A 20% discount is available on selected tickets for holders of disability cards (ZTP, ZTP/P) and their companions (for ZTP/P). Discounts do not apply to VIP tickets. Valid ID must be presented at entry.Recommended arrival time: We recommend arriving well in advance, especially if you plan to enjoy the VIP experience. Access to the castle park, where the auditorium is located, will open at 19:00, so please take this into account when planning your arrival.Dress Code & Comfort: The concert takes place outdoors in the castle park. Comfortable clothing is recommended, along with an extra layer for the evening.Refreshments: Food and drinks will be available on site. VIP guests receive a welcome drink included in their ticket.Parking: Parking is available near the castle grounds; however, a short walk should be expected.Additional Information: Please follow the instructions of event staff and enjoy the unique atmosphere of this special evening.
Concert Programme
W. A. Mozart
Don Giovanni – OvertureDuet Donna Anna & Don Ottavio “Che giuramento”Aria Donna Anna “Or sai chi l’onore”
P. I. Tchaikovsky
Eugene Onegin – PolonaiseLensky’s Aria “Kuda, kuda vy udalilis”
G. Verdi
Otello – Desdemona’s Aria “Ave Maria”
A. Cilea
L’Arlesiana – “Lamento di Federico – È la solita storia”
W. A. Mozart
Le nozze di Figaro – Overture
R. Wagner
Das Rheingold – Loge’s Monologue
Interval (approx. 20 minutes)
B. Smetana
The Bartered Bride – Dance “Skočná”
G. Gershwin
Porgy and Bess“Summertime”“It Ain’t Necessarily So”
A. Dvořák
Rusalka – PolonaiseRusalka’s Aria “Song to the Moon”
R. Cocciante
“Le temps des cathédrales” (Notre-Dame de Paris)
L. Dalla
“Caruso”
F. Lehár
The Merry Widow – Duet “Lippen schweigen”
G. Verdi
La traviata – Brindisi “Libiamo, ne’ lieti calici”
Step into a world where imagination takes the lead. Will you blast off to the stars, ride along dusty roads on two wheels, explore the distant Orient, or dive into a realm of fantasy? The paths may differ, but the destination is the same: doing what you love with all your heart.
Step into the castle after dark and become part of a story that has endured for centuries. These immersive evening tours will guide you through the historic halls and chambers of Castle Blatna, where the fate of a man whom Death has been unable to find for more than seven hundred years unfolds before your eyes.
We warmly invite children and their families to Princesses and Knights Day, a magical event dedicated to fairytales, princesses, and exciting knightly tournaments. Enjoy a packed stage programme featuring well-known personalities and beloved fairytale characters.
