Young gothenburg residents take their place at the opera
Article summary:
- More than 1,000 young people were invited to Miss Saigon
- The initiative aims to make culture more accessible
- The Port of Gothenburg is a sponsor of the initiative
- For many, it was their first visit to the Opera
- The evening created inspiration and new perspectives
An evening that leaves a lasting impression
On a Thursday evening in October, the Gothenburg Opera fills with a new audience. Anticipation is in the air as young people from across the city gather, many for their very first visit. The evening begins with a pre-event in the foyer and continues with the acclaimed musical Miss Saigon.
For 16-year-old Muhamed Kadoas, it is a completely new experience. He studies the technology programme at LBS Upper Secondary School and sees the evening as something out of the ordinary.
“I expect it to be a memory for life, actually.”
The aim of the initiative is to inspire more young people to discover culture as a natural and meaningful part of their free time.
Role models and recognition matter
Ahmed Hanic, Social Media & Content Manager at the Port of Gothenburg, recognises himself in the audience. Eighteen years ago, he attended a similar performance growing up in Biskopsgården without prior experience of the Opera.
“I had never set foot in the Opera, but I’d heard it was a rock opera, so I got curious. What meant the most was seeing how different the world could look.”
This evening, he is instead on stage, delivering an appreciated speech to the audience. For him, the initiative is about more than culture. It’s about inclusion.
“When young people see someone from Biskop speaking in a positive context, it can be inspiring. It’s about being included in a world you might not otherwise have access to.”
Culture that sparks curiosity
Among the audience are also students from Hvitfeldtska Upper Secondary School, looking forward to both the performance and the overall experience.
“Our teacher said Miss Saigon is sad and that we might cry. Haha, I’m so excited,” says Niusha Hashemi.
“Our whole class has been looking forward to this for weeks. It will be exciting to experience the music, the stage design, and the venue itself,” says Shiloh Lly.
For many, it is the encounter with something new that leaves the biggest impression.
“Why not take the opportunity to go? I thought. Once in a lifetime experience,” says Muhamed Kadoas.
“I want to learn about old instruments and music history. I don’t think I could live without music.”
More than an evening at the Opera
The evening at the Opera is about more than a performance. It shows how access to culture can create new perspectives, strengthen self-confidence, and open doors to contexts that might otherwise feel out of reach.
By supporting initiatives like this, the Port of Gothenburg helps ensure that more young people have the opportunity to experience, be inspired, and feel included in the city’s cultural life.