Tõrva is not an ordinary place.
This is where bold ideas become reality — where small-town charm meets truly grand events. In 1998, George Gershwin’s opera “Porgy and Bess” was performed here in an unforgettable open-air production. More than 7,000 people gathered in Tõrva’s central square, tickets sold out in just a few hours, and the event became the largest classical open-air opera performance in Estonian history.
Now, in 2026, as Tõrva celebrates its 100th anniversary, we are bringing this legend back — even bigger and more spectacular.
Two nights of world-class music:
Gershwin’s “Rhapsody in Blue” and “Porgy and Bess”
A glamorous James Bond Film Music Gala
If you were here back then — come again.
If you weren’t — this is your moment.
Programme
Friday, July 3, 2026 – 7:00 PM
Tõrva Central Square – Estonia’s largest temporary indoor concert hall
George Gershwin “Rhapsody in Blue” & opera “Porgy and Bess”
Pumeza Matshikiza – soprano (South Africa)
Luthando Qave baritone (South Africa)
Dmitry Pavlov piano (Finland)
Collegium Musicale Chamber Choir, Huik Mixed Choir, Pärnu City Orchestra
Conductor Henri Christofer Aavik
Saturday, July 4, 2026 – 7:00 PM
Tõrva Central Square – Estonia’s largest temporary indoor concert hall
James Bond Film Music Gala
Pumeza Matshikiza soprano (South Africa)
Monika-Evelin Liiv mezzo-soprano (Estonia)
Samuel Sakker tenor (Australia)
Tanja Mihhailova (Estonia)
Koit Toome (Estonia)
Aminata Savadogo (Latvia)
Pärnu City Orchestra
Conductor Henri Christofer Aavik
The experience doesn’t end with the final applause.
On both evenings, the festival continues with late-night jazz in Tõrva Central Square.
For this special anniversary weekend, Tallinn’s internationally acclaimed Philly Joe’s Jazz Club relocates to Tõrva, bringing a vibrant atmosphere and summer-night celebration.
DJ Reigo Ahven will keep the music flowing long after the concerts have ended.
The Story of Tõrva
Tõrva — the heart of Mulgi County — is a resort town that stays with you.
Since receiving official summer resort town status in 1937, Tõrva has been a place to slow down, breathe, and enjoy culture surrounded by nature.
One unforgettable chapter was written in 1998.
When Gershwin’s Porgy and Bess was first planned, no one could have imagined what it would become: 7,500 tickets, sold out in record time, and the largest open-air opera event Estonia has ever seen.
It wasn’t just an opera.
It was the feeling that something extraordinary was happening right here.
In 2019, Tõrva proved once again that it is made for grand events, hosting Verdi’s monumental Requiem in a specially built indoor concert hall for nearly 1,800 listeners.
Now, in 2026, as the town celebrates its 100th birthday, Porgy and Bess returns — not for nostalgia, but because some moments deserve to happen again.
Come to Tõrva.
For the first time, the second time, or the hundredth time.
Some stories are worth retelling.
Some evenings become memories for life.
Gallery
FAQ
No. The concerts will be held in Estonia’s largest temporary indoor concert hall, specially built for Tõrva Opera Days. This ensures a comfortable, weatherproof experience with excellent acoustics and visibility.
Yes. Friday and Saturday require separate tickets. Prices are the same for both nights.
The Supporter Ticket includes the best seating, access to the VIP area (separate restrooms and bar), VIP parking, a welcome glass of sparkling wine, and a thank-you gift.
Tõrva and the surrounding area offer a wide range of accommodation options.
See: https://visittorva.ee/en/majutus/
Enjoy lakes and beaches, hiking trails, cultural landmarks, museums, and many events throughout the anniversary year.
More: https://visittorva.ee/en/
Tõrva 100
Come earlier, stay longer!
Did you know Tõrva has two official swimming beaches, four lakes, and the highest diving tower in the Baltics?
The town also offers scenic health trails, the historic Kino Koit cinema, and award-winning dining such as Malmizza pizzeria.
And Opera Days are only one part of Tõrva’s exciting 100th anniversary programme!
Sponsors
Main sponsor
Major sponsors
