Christian Andersen’s The Nightingale is a work inspired by his life. The Danish writer fell in love with Jenny Lind, a singer known as the Swedish Nightingale. Enchanted by her voice, he wrote a fairy tale set somewhere in distant China.

Just before sunrise, on the seashore, a fisherman hears a crystalline song that makes him forget his worries. He also learns an extraordinary story, and upon returning home, he shares it with his children. This is the story of a Chinese emperor who, despite his wealth and power, feels very lonely: no courtly entertainment, no porcelain palace, and no beautiful garden full of flowers bring him pleasure. One day, the monarch hears a concert sung by a nightingale. The unassuming bird sings so wonderfully that it moves everyone who listens. Its enchanting voice is spoken of throughout the country until the emperor receives a gift – a golden nightingale music box: beautiful, intricately crafted, yet artificial. Then the ruler forgets the true friend who until now has so deeply moved and soothed him.

You will discover how this story of truth that touches hearts ends. The narrator will engage both children and adults in discovering the details of events at the Chinese emperor’s court. We invite you to a colourful meeting with music, full of hidden sonic surprises, during which you will see how important it is to be attentive and listen carefully.