The Performing Arts

Estonia is known to the world as the 'Singing Nation', and with good reason. Choir music has defined the Estonians' identity from the time of first national song festivals in the 19th century right up to the 'Singing Revolution' that heralded the country's break from Soviet rule. Now you too can get a taste of this phenomonon by attending a private concert performed by a top children's choir. Founded in 2001, this choir has given more than 400 concerts all over the globe. Making the experience even more special, the concert takes place in one the Medieval houses of Tallinn’s Old Town. 

Sound and vision have a strong impact on our emotions and reactions. This iLIFE music concept created by Villu Veski, one of the most talented saxophone players in the Baltic region, lets people relax and regain their inspiration. In the unique audiovisual performance, the musician improvises with various instruments while his work is blended with computer-assisted background sound and visuals. Musical styles include everything from dance-floor jazz to Brazilian to mystical Nordic rhythms, while video sequences include computer illustrations, nature shots and clips from the Golden Age of Jazz.

Everyone has music in their soul – sometimes it's just a matter of bringing it out! In this three-hour workshop participants get the chance to practice singing, dancing and playing musical instruments. After a bit of rehearsal they'll look and sound like a real band!

In this fun, drama-based exercise, your group will be taken to a local theatre and given the task creating short plays based on a pre-arranged theme. You'll be assisted in your efforts by real theatre professionals who will teach you the tricks of the trade, including special lighting and stage effects. All the actors get to dress up in the costumes they have chosen. Those who aren't members of the cast can help out backstage or watch from the audience.

Look out Hollywood! In this programme you'll be making a your very own short film, special effects and all. A theme for the film, such as 'The A-Team', will be decided well in advance. The day starts with a short acting course, an introduction to various roles and techniques, getting made over by professional make-up artists, choosing costumes and other preparation. Roles or crew positions are allocated to each group member, and the rest of the day is taken up with the film shoot. In the evening there will be a theme party where all the amusing outtakes will be shown.

This specially designed programme by the folk-group Savijalakesed (Clay Feet) not only presents Estonian folk music and dance, it also introduces traditional folk music instruments, many of which have been fashioned from animal horns, bark, clay and other natural materials. During the performance spectators will get the chance to join in the dancing and try out these unique instruments.