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On 4 November 2026, the Croatian National Theatre in Zagreb marked the 150th anniversary of the world premiere of Ivan pl. Zajc’s opera Nikola Šubić Zrinjski with a gala performance of one of the most significant and best-known works of Croatian operatic heritage. First performed on 4 November 1876 at the then National Theatre, located in Zagreb’s Upper Town, under the baton of the composer himself, the opera has over the past century and a half transcended the boundaries of musical and theatrical creation to become a lasting part of Croatia’s cultural heritage.

On the same day, the CNT in Zagreb also celebrated the 150th anniversary of Croatian ballet, with a special presentation of the anniversary programme at 11 am in the Theatre foyer, dedicated to the rich tradition and future of ballet.

The performance of the eighth tableau of Nikola Šubić Zrinjski, presented as part of the ceremonial opening of the Theatre’s present-day building on 14 October 1895, holds a special place in the history of the Croatian National Theatre in Zagreb. Zajc’s masterpiece thus became inextricably linked with the history of the national theatre, on whose stage it has brought together generations of artists and audiences over the past 150 years.

Inspired by the historic defence of Szigetvár in 1566, and set to a libretto by Hugo Badalić, the opera tells a powerful story of courage, loyalty and sacrifice. Its extraordinary musical force and emotional intensity have made it one of the most significant achievements in Croatian opera, while its artistic value and symbolism transcend the time in which it was created.

Reflecting on the significance of this anniversary and the enduring value of Zajc’s work, Iva Hraste Sočo, General Manager and Artistic Director of the CNT in Zagreb, highlighted:

“Marking the 150th anniversary of the world premiere of Nikola Šubić Zrinjski means much more to the Croatian National Theatre in Zagreb than commemorating an important date in our theatrical history. Over the centuries, this work has grown beyond the confines of opera to become part of our collective cultural memory, a symbol of belonging, courage and the aspiration for freedom. Its enduring presence on our stage bears witness to the power of music and theatre to bring generations together and transmit values that transcend the time in which they were created. With this gala performance, we pay tribute to Ivan pl. Zajc and to all the artists who, over the past 150 years, have safeguarded and brought this extraordinary work to life time and again. We also reaffirm our responsibility to preserve Croatia’s artistic heritage and pass it on to future generations.”

The gala performance was conducted by Ivan Josip Skender, and the production, which premiered on 5 November 1994, was directed by Krešimir Dolenčić. The set was designed by Dinka Jeričević, the costumes by Ika Škomrlj and Dženisa Pecotić, and the lighting by Deni Šesnić.

Ljubomir Puškarić sings the title role of Nikola Šubić Zrinjski, with Valentina Fijačko Kobić as Eva, Darija Auguštan as Jelena, Domagoj Dorotić as Juranić, Ozren Bilušić as Alapić, Ivo Gamulin as Paprutović, Luciano Batinić as Suleiman the Magnificent, Stjepan Franetović as Sokolović, Davor Nekjak as Levi, Danijel Vukelja as Mustafa, Josip Galić as Ali Portuk, Jakov Kalajžić as Beglerbeg and Alen Ruško as the Messenger.

The production also features the CNT Ballet ensemble and the Opera Orchestra and Chorus. The artistic and production team also includes assistant director Marta Tutiš, assistant choreographer Božica Lisak, ballet mistress Iva Višak, chorus master Luka Vukšić, and Tijana Gojić Topolnik, who translated the libretto into English.

The gala performance was also dedicated to the memory of the recently deceased Sonja Kastl, a Croatian ballerina, choreographer and ballet teacher, and one of the most prominent figures in Croatian ballet in the second half of the twentieth century, who also created the choreography for this production. Through this dedication, the CNT in Zagreb pays tribute to her outstanding artistic contribution and the indelible mark she left on Croatian dance and theatre.

By marking the 150th anniversary of the world premiere of Nikola Šubić Zrinjski, the Croatian National Theatre in Zagreb honoured not only one of the most significant works in Croatian opera, but also the rich tradition of Croatia’s musical and theatrical heritage. The gala performance in the historic building of the Croatian National Theatre in Zagreb thus became a symbolic meeting point for the past and present, reaffirming the long-lasting artistic value of the opera that has held a special place in Croatian culture and national identity for a century and a half.