Congratulations to Swedish soprano Julia Sporsén as she receives Swedish newspaper Svenska Dagbladet's 2023 Opera Prize for her bold portrayal in the title role of Norma at Folkoperan in Stockholm. Following the production in Autumn 2022, she revived the role in June 2023, shortly after performing Judith in Bluebeard's Castle with the company. One of Scandinavia's most prestigious awards, previous winners include some of the finest Swedish artists of recent years including Gösta Winbergh, Katarina Dalayman, Peter Mattei, Nina Stemme, Malin Byström and Katarina Karnéus.
“Sensational, fabulous, outstanding... Her bold portrayal has dramatic nerve and great expressiveness. In the service of artistic expression, she tests all boundaries with beautiful sensibility and total vocal mastery. “ (Bo Löfvendahl, Svenska Dagbladet)
The prize was awarded to Julia on 28 September where a new work written for Julia was premiered in Västerås concert hall, composed by Maria Lithell Flyg with text by the poet Jonas Gren. Titled "Anthropocene", it was part of a focus on climate issues and discussed the role of humans in nature. You can hear a recording of that world premiere performance here.
You can read an English translation of Julia’s Opera Prize interview by clicking here.
