Opening of the European Capital of Culture

18.1.2020.

Press Information

Opening of the European Capital of Culture

A rich full-day cultural and entertainment programme in Rijeka, involving a large number of organizers and participants, as well as the central ceremony in the evening, the Opera Industriale in the Rijeka Port

The opening ceremony programme of the European Capital of Culture is an overture to all that awaits the citizens of Rijeka and the region and all of Rijeka’s visitors in 2020.  The full-day programme planned for 1 February 2020 has been organized by a large number of people, companies, entrepreneurs, associations and arts organizations from Rijeka and the region. This broadness reflects the approach to the cultural and artistic programme envisaged for the whole of 2020, a primarily collaborative, partnership-oriented and inclusive programme, just like the project of the European Capital of Culture.

Events throughout the entire day in the Port of Diversity

On the very first day of a great year for culture, Rijeka is offering more than 70 events for all ages, tastes and interests. The programme takes place at over 30 locations in the centre of Rijeka and includes a huge number of people, featuring numerous DJs, rock concerts, pop-up events on the city’s streets, children’s performances with songs and dance, humorous performances, a fashion show, performances by Rijeka writers and authors, dance nights for pensioners, and a gathering of rock bands from the ‘60s, ‘70s and ‘80s. An entire river of people is part of the opening programme of the European Capital of Culture.

Central opening programme – Opera Industriale in the Rijeka Port

The central opening ceremony takes place in the Rijeka Port, a space that represents a strong point of identity for Rijeka. In the central artistic programme of the opening ceremony, Rijeka thematically gathers important parts of its identity in the Opera Industriale, based on the musical template of the Rijeka art duo JMZM – Josip Maršić (CRO) and Zoran Medved (CRO) – and on the orchestration of the Croatian composer, maestro Fran Đurović (CRO). More than a hundred performers will perform on the main stage, located on De Franceschi’s Pier in the Rijeka Port, as well as at other locations in the port, with the programme even involving a large part of the audience.

With the sounds of industry and welding sparks, Rijeka symbolically and proudly expresses its respect for the strength of the workers who built it and made it a modern city. With references representing an homage to Janko Polić Kamov, Rijeka’s greatest poet and an uncompromising artist who heralded the arrival of the European avant-garde, Rijeka is affirming his stature in the context of Europe. This historical European anti-fascist position of Rijeka is also emphasized in the opening programme, reminding Europe of the fundamental social values on which it was built in the modern period, after the suffering of the last pan-European war. The powerful sound of electric guitars brings the propulsive energy of Rijeka’s punk and rock, which in their time represented the rebelliousness and boldness of Rijeka. The programme is concluded by a most powerful sound that has driven away winter since ancient times – the bell-ringers herald with tremendous noise the new era that Rijeka will enter on 1 February 2020 as the European Capital of Culture.

Devoted to these themes, the Opera Industriale is performed live by numerous performers to backing tracks, combining sounds of the city, industry and noise, classical instruments, choral singing, ringing bells and sounds made by the audience, which is actively involved in the performance. Sound, music and noise, effects created by a combination of light and darkness, powerful symbols of Rijeka and Europe – this is the crux of the attractive opening ceremony at the Rijeka Port.

It is performed by DB Indoš – House of Extreme Musical Theatre, an intriguing Finnish men’s choir who rattle, shout and scream Mieskuoro Huutajat (FI), the mixed choir Jeka Primorja led by Igor Vlajnić (CRO), an orchestra of strings and wind instruments playing cello, bass, clarinets, trumpets and trombones, an ensemble of twenty-five Rijeka guitarists, ten drummers and a workers’ orchestra of grinders, welders and sparks. A part of the audience also participates in the performance by ringing, cheering, making noise and creating light, transforming into a living instrument that represents the people – the most powerful part of the city’s identity.

Opening Ceremony in the Croatian National Theatre Ivan pl. Zajc

In the late afternoon, the ceremonial element of the opening of the ECoC will be held in the theatre, with short music and stage performances and welcome speeches, attended by high-ranking officials from Europe and Croatia – representatives of the EU Commission, ministers of culture of European countries, representatives of previous and future European Capitals of Culture, ambassadors, diplomats and more. Upon completion of the ceremonial part, these high-ranking officials will also attend the central opening programme in the Rijeka Port.

Full-Day Programme

1 February 2020 Rijeka is offering more than 70 events at over 30 locations for all ages, tastes and interests. A huge number of people, associations, arts organizations, entrepreneurs and institutions are involved in the organization of the full-day program.

A huge number of people are involved in organizing the opening of the European Capital of Culture and thanks to their involvement, Rijeka is able to offer over 70 events for all ages, tastes and interests on 1 February 2020. The programme will take place at over 30 locations in the centre of Rijeka and featuring numerous musicians, DJs, dramatic artists, vocalists, children, pensioners and more.

Timeline of the full-day opening programme in Rijeka:

Socializing at Cafe Bar Skradin

7 a.m. – 1 p.m., Vodovodna 29/Skradin cafe bar

A special programme for visitors taking the anti-tourist route on a Rijeka tour bus will take place during the day at Cafe Bar Skradin. As part of this, Tanja Smoje and Jelena Lopatić will take the audience on a tour three times during the day, with the first tour starting at 10 a.m. Even the New York Times recently wrote about Cafe Bar Skradin, stating: “To better understand the city’s groove, take a circuit along the river and former industrial zone (…) Start with a cold Nikšićko beer at Cafe Bar Skradin – a family-owned drinking hole, filled with memorabilia, including old radios and maps, since 1964.”

spa_spa_show

9 a.m. – 12 p.m., Kazališni Square/Cafe bar SET

The spa_spa_show programme, by Aleksandra Stojaković Olenjuk and Nataša Antulov, is a hybrid between performance art and theatre and features famous Rijeka artists Nika Mišković, Sanja Milardović and Tanja Blašković. It is a performance in the form of a talk show, with the performers helping the audience to prepare mentally and physically, in the tradition of the Oprah show, for the opening ceremony of the ECoC 2020.

Rijeka, Steps and Time

9:30 a.m. – 12 p.m., Korzo

Rijeka, Steps and Time, a programme by the company Thorax, will introduce visitors to the important events of the last 116 years of Rijeka’s turbulent history. Using a 232-metre long timeline set on the Korzo, the programme allows visitors to experience Rijeka’s history and, with the help of two guides, to familiarise themselves with various significant events of this time period. The events are presented through acting, accurate sets, descriptions and visuals.

Childhood in the Port of Diversity

10:00 – 10:45 a.m., Čajni Square (Matija Vlačić Flacijus Square)

The Childhood in the Port of Diversity programme is presented by the pupils of the Vežica Elementary School, who, with the assistance of mentors, will perform children’s songs, nursery rhymes, tongue twisters, language games and lullabies in their own languages or their parents’ languages (Russian, Ukrainian, Romanian, Greek, Italian, English, Scottish, Polish, Czech…) and in the Chakavian and Kajkavian dialects of Croatian. Rather than perceiving multilingualism as a challenge, they experience it as wealth and a value to be nurtured.

Musical and Dance Carousel

10:00 – 11:00 a.m., Principium (Archaeological Park)

The Glazbeni vrtuljak Creative and Educational Centre will take the audience for a spin with its musical voyage. The Male tratinčice and Tratinčice children’s choirs will be joined by soloists, participants of the Small Singing School programme, and the ChikaZ Zumba Rijeka Association, a sports recreation and dance association that includes both children and adults. The competition dance group will leave everyone present breathless with their flashy dance moves. Everyone is invited to take a ride on the musical and dance carousel!

Anti-tourist tour of the city

10:00 – 11:30 a.m., Vodovodna 29/in front of the Cafe Bar Skradin

In the vein of the 2007 play Welcome to Rijeka, Prostor Plus will take the audience on an anti-tourist route on a Rijeka tour bus. In this hilarious project by Žak Valenta, Tanja Smoje (Karolina) and Jelena Lopatić (Ida) discuss current local and global issues, without mincing words and sparing no one with their juicy comments. The anti-tourist tour departs from the Skradin bar in Vodovodna Street and the passengers disembark at the same location, where they are given a welcome drink and the traditional Croatian pastry fritule.
Departure:
10:00 – 11:30 a.m.
12:00 – 1:30 p.m.
2:00 – 3:30 p.m.

Denim Recycling Workshop

10:00 a.m. – 12 p.m., Tekstil Store, I. Grohovca 3A

The company Albabona is running a workshop on recycling denim and converting denim into new skirts on the premises of the Tekstil store. The maximum number of participants is 10. The recycled skirts will be presented on the railing in front of RiHub. Applications for the workshop should be sent by e-mail to albabona.croatia@gmail.com by 1/20/2020 or until all spots are filled.

Pop-up choir singing at the fish market

10:30 – 11:15 a.m., Rijeka Fish Market

The Rijeka Vocal Studio is a choir whose diverse repertoire includes works of Croatian and world choral music as well as covers of popular songs. Guided by the idea that every moment of life must be imbued with music, they are performing at the Rijeka fish market, where the performance will be complemented by instrumental accompaniment. The choir will be joined by the Torretta Choir from the Glazbeni vrtuljak Creative and Educational Centre.

Choir of the Pensioners’ Association

11:00 a.m., Kružna 5

The Rijeka Pensioners’ Association will hold a commemorative salute and its mixed choir will perform under the direction of maestros Vinko Badjuk and Damir Badurina.

Walkers – a futurist vision of Trafik’s cult play Walker

11:00 – 11:35 a.m., Korzo, in front of the Filodrammatica

The Trafik Artistic Organisation and the Ana Maletić School of Contemporary Dance from Zagreb will perform the programme Hodači-ce (Walkers), a sort of futuristic vision of the cult Trafik play Hodač (Walker) / Homage to Janko Polić Kamov. Under the mentorship of Trafik’s artistic director Žak Valenta, 16 young dancers will use a contemporary dance performance to the futuristic electronic music of Dušan Maksimovski to send the message: Let’s open up space for young artists, because the future belongs to them.

Performance by Chamber Choir

11:00 – 11:40 a.m., Čajni Square (Matija Vlačić Flacijus Square)

The Rijeka Chamber Choir Val will perform covers of folk and popular domestic and foreign compositions. Their repertoire includes Fiume nel mio cuor, originally performed by Nevia Rigutto.

Music School performance

11:00 – 11:45 a.m., Principium (Archaeological Park)

The performance by the Ivan Matetić Ronjgov Music School will include an accordion orchestra, girls’ choir, mixed choir, chamber ensemble and soloists.

Rox populi

11:00 a.m. – 2:00 a.m., Kobler Square and Šišmiš Street

Rox populi – programme by the Hospitality Industry Association of the Primorje-Gorski kotar County
Kobler Square and Šišmiš Street are hosting a covered stage, with the entrance to the square and the entrance to Šišmiš Street – the narrowest street in the city – decorated with lights. The following venues are participating in the programme: Maslina on Zeleni Square, Caffe bar Charlie, Caffe bar Garcon, Caffe bar Juliet, Caffe bar Romeo, Me Gusta Gourmet Pub, BoomBar, and Submarine burger.
Gourmet Corner – five cottages on the square with a convenient offering of food and drink.
4:00 – 6:00 p.m. – Techno Vikings – live performance
6:00 – 6:45 p.m. – KUC Kalvarija – Kuc Kuc Cabaret
9:00 – 12:00 p.m. – Jazz program at Juliet cafe: The Mystic Rose Ensemble David Baumgarten jazz quartet live
11:00 p.m. – 2:00 a.m. – By The Way Band

Exhibitions on events from the history of Rijeka

11:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m., Adamićeva 5

The Rikordi Rijeka Association is bringing an all-day exhibition on important events in Rijeka’s history that have gathered people and aroused great public interest, such as the opening of the Croatian National Theatre Ivan pl. Zajc, the opening of the bridge between Rijeka and Sušak, the success of the Rijeka football club, and more. With a tour of the exhibition, visitors will be greeted with refreshments and music from an original record player from the 1930s.

Pensioners perform Ode to Joy

12:00 p.m., Jadranski Square

In front of the ECoC installation (timer), the choir of the Pensioners’ Association will perform the Ode to Joy with Damir Badurina, Najdraža Rijeko (Rijeka Dearest) and other compositions, followed by a banquet and a celebration of the opening of the ECoC in Kružna Street.

Pop-up choir performance at the fish market

12:00 – 12:45 p.m., Rijeka Fish Market

Second pop-up performance by the Rijeka Vocal Studio, a choir whose diverse repertoire includes works of Croatian and world choral music as well as covers of popular songs.

Topographies of our distances

12:00 – 12.45 p.m., Kazališni Square/stage in front of the Kings cafe bar

The Radio Sova student association is staging a performance of the contemporary play “Topographies of Our Distances“, which focuses on the issues of human distances, differences, misunderstandings and their causes. Written for two performers, the play portrays the dynamics of a homoerotic love, confronted with social prejudice, political correctness, self-doubt, and even self-hatred. The play features the following performers: Ana Maria Štefanac, Tonca Mršić and Linda Uran (musical accompaniment). The play was written by Dorotea Šušak

Homage to Ludwig van Beethoven

12:00 – 1:00 p.m., Defile: Leaning Tower/Jelačić Square/Mlikarica/Vlačić (Čajni) Square/Kobler Square/Korzo/Radio Rijeka

Ludwig van Beethoven is coming to Rijeka, 250 years after his birth, thanks to the Primorski Hrvat Association. The sounds and tunes of this giant of the music world and composer of the Ode to Joy, the fourth and final movement of his 9th Symphony, will dominate the streets of the city. In a parade from the Jelačić Square to the Jadranski Square, the audience will rejoice with the orchestra in the clouds and the brilliant little ballerinas of the Rotondo dance group.

Classical guitar music

12:00 – 1:00 p.m., Principium (Archaeological Park)

In an event organized by the Maestro teaching and performance trade, Vanja Posavec will present visitors with various styles of classical music on her classical guitar. The programme includes compositions by Baroque composers, including Luka Sorkočević, the music of Romanticism, Modernism and film scores. Some of the compositions were written for the classical guitar, while others are transcriptions of works written for other instruments such as the cello, violin or piano.

Anti-tourist tour

12:00 – 13:30 p.m., Vodovodna 29/in front of the Cafe Bar Skradin

Second departure of the anti-tourist tour on the Rijeka tour bus, led by Tanja Smoje (Karolina) and Jelena Lopatić (Ida).

Rijeka Port-er – Rijeka is in fashion, let’s wear Rijeka

12:00 – 2:30 p.m., Čajni Square (Matija Vlačić Flacijus Square)

As part of the RIJEKA PORTer – Rijeka is in fashion, let’s wear Rijeka event, organized by the company Albabona:
12:00 – 4:00 p.m. Rijeka Brhani exhibition, which follows the development of the skirt as a garment, deals with the metaphor and symbol of the skirt for women, the skirt as a garment for men and presents skirts from various plays and theatre performances.
2:00 – 2:30 p.m. Fashion show featuring designers who recycle and process clothes into new garments.

In the Footsteps of LaGuardia – Rijeka Bridge to New York

12:00 – 6:00 p.m., Fiorello Pub on the Korzo

The company Flumen M.D. is organising the In the Footsteps of LaGuardia – Rijeka Bridge to New York programme.
12:00 p.m. Opening of the exhibition of paintings by Željko Ašperger
3:30 p.m. Performance by the gospel choir The Messengers
The programme continues into the evening.

River of Art

12:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m. Palach /SKC Gallery, Kružna 8

Rijeka umjetnosti (River of Art), organized by the SKC Gallery of the University of Rijeka, is an exhibition of student works that allows students to gain experience and to develop their presentation and sales skills, and presents visitors with the opportunity to experience and purchase unique works of art as opposed to commercial products.
12:00 – 3:00 p.m. Spin the Record – Visitors are invited to play music themselves on a record table using records they have brought along or a record from the gallery’s selection!
3:00 – 9:00 p.m. DJ Nino Juričev Barbin b2b Ivo Makarun

Rijeka Tent/FKK Tent

12:00 – 5:00 a.m. Tito Square/Cont

The company Novi turizam is arranging a full-day gathering with a cultural and artistic flavour, inspired by Rijeka’s past and present, with a humanitarian character.
12:00 – 5:00 p.m. Zero Neighbourhood: A humanitarian joint meal of citizens of all social backgrounds and visitors, with background music by DJ FIGLIA.
5:00 – 7:00 p.m. FKK Tent: Concert of jazz and improvised music performed by Zoran Majstorović & Štikla Jazz Session.
9:00 p.m. – 12:00 a.m. I’m staying in Rijeka: Enjoy the urban sounds of the following bands: Žulj, Speedclaw, Krematorium, Divlji detektivi, Iz@ Medošević – poetry and rock, and Marinada.
12:00 – 5:00 a.m. Cosmopolitan Music: dance to the rhythms of Ivo Zuban (DJ FIGLIO) from Pula, a great admirer of the rhythms and sounds of Rijeka

Musical performance by the Duga group of kindergarten teachers

1:00 – 2:00 p.m., Čajni Square (Matija Vlačić Flacijus Square)

The Duga vocal group, consisting of kindergarten teachers from Rijeka, performs a diverse musical repertoire, including tunes of an Istrian and Croatian Littoral provenance, spiritual, traditional a cappella, and choral compositions, as well as covers of popular songs.

WORKSITE 2020

1:00 – 2:00 p.m., Korzo

The performance piece RADILIŠTE 2020 (Worksite 2020) by the Kabinet art organization, performed by Ivana Kalc and Tajči Čekada, addresses the subject of meaningless and aimless work and deals with the flow of time, which appears immobile within the repetitive action. On the busiest part of the Korzo (around the city clock), the performers move transversely, intersecting the usual direction of movement of the population.

Musical performance by the group Lira

1:15 – 2:00 p.m., Principium (Archaeological Park)

The vocal group Lira performs compositions of a musical expression typical of Istria and the Croatian Littoral, compositions in the field of classical choral music, of both a spiritual and secular character, by local and foreign composers, and compositions adapted for polyphonic female vocal ensembles from popular music, both foreign and domestic.

Kantriders on the Kazališni Square

1:00 – 3:00 p.m., Kazališni Square/stage in front of the Kings cafe bar

Kings Kafe brings you a performance by the Kantriders. The Kantriders are synonymous with diversity in musical expression.  The group’s music is based on various styles, from blues and rock’n’roll to Mediterranean and Croatian music. This concert is an ideal opportunity for Rijeka residents and visitors to experience authentic Rijeka and Mediterranean music in the city centre.

Anti-tourist tour

2:00 – 3:30 p.m., Vodovodna 29/in front of the Cafe Bar Skradin

The third departure of the anti-tourist tour, as part of which, after 12 years, tourist workers from the former hit show DDR will take passengers on a 90-minute tour of Rijeka sights on a tour bus; in addition to showing the city, they let the audience know what is new with their lives, the city and country, commenting on current local and global issues without mincing words.

The Bells of Our City

2:00 – 3:30 p.m., Principium (Archaeological Park)

The Rijeka-Sempre Allegro mixed choir will perform a concert entitled The Bells of Our City; the program includes covers of popular domestic and foreign hits, traditional a cappella music performed by choirs, and catchy crossover performances of classical, pop and rock music. The guest of the concert is countertenor Marko Antolković – with whom the choir collaborated on the performance of Carmina Burana – known for winning the golden buzzer and reaching the final of the Supertalent television show. Pianist, accompanist and friend to the choir Mateo Žmak will enrich the concert programme with a popular crossover.

Izet Borgie – Sydney Opera

3:00 – 4:00 p.m., Čajni Square (Matija Vlačić Flacijus Square)

Izet Borgie are promoting their new album Opera u Sydneyu (Sydney Opera), which reveals the roots of the artists’ inspiration. Fans of any of the bands the Stooges, MC 5, Motown, the first incarnation of the band Majke, Motorhead, Sonics or similar will love “Opera”, and anyone not familiar with these will love Izet Borgie because they are the best rock’n’roll band from Varna to Gibraltar.

DJ Nino Juričev Barbin b2b Ivo Makarun

3:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Palach/SKC Gallery, Kružna 8

As part of the River of Art programme, and organized by the SKC Gallery of the University of Rijeka, the following performance will be held: DJ Nino Juričev Barbin b2b Ivo Makarun

Accordion Orchestra from Pula

4:00 – 4:45 p.m., Book caffe Dnevni boravak, Ciottina 12a

Distrikt: Tunnels

4:00 – 6:00 p.m., Club Tunel, Školjić 12

The Urban Culture Society and Kultura d.o.o. will present the DISTRIKT:TUNNELS programme, a Marina Karamarko & Filip Motovunski – Show & Tell – presentation of and introduction to the basic techniques of mixing/playing music.

THANQ LABEL – presentation of the record label owned by Marina Karamarko.

LOVE CATS Exhibition – sales exhibition of illustrations by Luisa Ritoša, an academic artist who paints various cat expressions and characters with a touch of her unique humour. Sales from the purchase of the prints are used to co-finance the care of stray cats.

2020 the Beat Street

4:00 – 7:00 p.m., Pavao Ritter Vitezović Street

2020 the Beat Street – programme organized by the Hospitality Industry Association of the Primorje-Gorski kotar County
Vitezović Street is getting a DJ booth and a dazzling light show. The following venues are participating in the programme: Luppis cafe bar, Pucci cafe bar and Three Monkeys cafe bar
Pop up Barber shop – haircuts and shaving in collaboration with the Gentlemen’s Club
Exhibitors of indigenous products
Pop up Gin Bar – with a selection of custom-designed authentic Rijeka gin tonics

Jazz vs. Blues Rijeka

4:30 – 6:45 p.m., Principium (Archaeological Park)

The Jazz vs. Blues Rijeka programme of the Tororo Association brings concerts of jazz standards, original music and blues hits to Rijeka. The SpartJazz Quartet, which performs globally-known jazz standards and its own original music with an emphasis on a traditional approach to jazz with a particular quartet twist, and the Jed Becker’s Group, a blues-rock attraction offering great fun and guaranteeing a good time, are performing.

Duško Jeličić – Bonaca

4:00 p.m. – 12:00 a.m., Riječka rezolucija Square

The company Promocija presents the music programme on the square:
4:00 – 6:00 p.m. Duško Jeličić – Bonaca
9:00 – 10:30 p.m. Groovers
10:30 p.m. – 12:00 a.m. Šajeta
12:00 – 2:00 a.m. Groovers

Jazz Concert

5:00 – 7:00 p.m. Tito Square/Cont

Concert of jazz and improvised music performed by Zoran Majstorović & the Štikla Jazz Session as part of the RIJEKA TENT/ FKK TENT programme by the company Novi turizam, which is arranging an entire day socializing with a cultural and artistic flavour, inspired by Rijeka’s past and present, with a humanitarian character.

Walkers

5:00 – 5:35 p.m., Korzo in front of the Filodrammatica

The Trafik Artistic Organisation and the Ana Maletić School of Contemporary Dance from Zagreb will perform the programme Hodači-ce (Walkers), a futuristic vision of the cult Trafik play Hodač (Walker) / Homage to Janko Polić Kamov. Under the mentorship of Trafik’s artistic director Žak Valenta, the young dancers featured in this contemporary dance performance to the futuristic electronic music of Dušan Maksimovski will send the message: Let’s open up space for young artists, because the future belongs to them.

The acoustic quartet plays flamenco and rumba

5:00 – 6:30 p.m., Čajni Square (Matija Vlačić Flacijus Square)

In an event organized by the Ćeif art organization, the Agam acoustic trio will turn into a quartet, aided by a guest playing the conga. The band will play a fusion of flamenco and rumba, with a mix of rock and Balkan rhythms. The band includes: Goran Tomić – guitar, Sebastijan Demark – double bass, Endi Oblak – percussion, Dejan Turk – conga.

Pub Quiz

6:00 p.m., Bačva pub, Dolac 8

Bačva Club – Rijeka Pub Quiz

Opera Industriale

7:00 – 8:30 p.m., Rijeka Port

Opera Industriale – central opening programme. Sound, music and noise, effects created by a combination of light and darkness, powerful symbols of Rijeka and Europe – this is the crux of the dazzling opening ceremony at the Rijeka Port. The programme starts at 7:30 p.m., with the audience invited to gather shortly beforehand.

Pensioners’ Dance Evening

8:45 p.m. – 12:00 a.m., Circolo, Uljarska 1

Dance Evening organized by the Rijeka Pensioners’ Association with the Duo Aledory and a concert dedicated to the City of Rijeka.  The original song Pošalji ljubav, Luko različitosti (Send us Love, Port of Diversity) will be performed for the first time, and the entertainment continues until late in the night with popular dance melodies.

Rijeka rock anthems

9:00 p.m., Bačva pub, Dolac 8

Bačva Klub – Splash band – Rijeka rock anthems

Black Nights on the Turntable

9:00 p.m., Dnevni boravak Cafe, Ciottina 12

A Literary and Music Evening, Black Nights on the Turntable

ECoC Menu in the restaurant

9:00 p.m., Conca d’Oro, Kružna 12

Special ECoC menu and entertainment programme

Sarah & The Romans with friends

9:00 p.m. – 12:00 a.m., Čajni Square (Matija Vlačić Flacijus Square)

Sarah & The Romans with friends – the Formaoptimum Association presents a concert consisting of a fusion of musical expressions such as Central European folk, country, and bluegrass, as interpreted by performers from Croatia, Slovenia and Sweden. The following acts are performing: Sarah & The Romans, Bruno Petrali, Nina Fakin, Annika Ljungberg, Autostop Trio, Branko Nemeš, and DJ Rabbit.  They are representatives of the European Capitals of Culture (formerly Stockholm in 1998, candidate Ljubljana for 2025 and current Rijeka 2020).

Suton 2

9:00 p.m. – 12:00 a.m., Principium (Archaeological Park)

Suton 2 is an audio-visual event from the Kombinat Association held in the Archaeological Park and featuring multidisciplinary artist band Stephany Stefan from Rijeka and the band Freekind from Croatia/Slovenia, with video screenings by the multimedia artist Oblik3 from Rijeka.

Back2love

9:00 p.m. – 12:00 a.m., Rijeka Fish Market

The Back2love programme for all good music and dance enthusiasts has been put together by L2C EVENTS and creative director Ivona Brnelić. The programme is a musical time machine through jazz, funk, disco, r’n’b and soulful house, with great dance performances. The programme includes: Danijela Večerinović (vocalist), DJ Ivan Mastermix, DJ unkleFunk, DJ Bcolud, Jakša Jordes (saxophone), Manuel Lupen (percussion), RiS girls (dance performance).

Blues&rock clubbing music

9:00 p.m. – 1:00 a.m., Kazališni Square/stage in front of the Kings cafe bar

Evening programme organised by the Food Pub, offering blues & rock clubbing music.

Rox populi

9:00 p.m. – 2:00 a.m., Kobler Square

Rox populi – programme organized by the Hospitality Industry Association of the Primorje-Gorski kotar County.
9:00 – 12:00 p.m. – Jazz program at Juliet cafe: The Mystic Rose Ensemble David Baumgarten jazz quartet live
11:00 p.m. – 2:00 a.m. – By The Way Band

2020 the Beat Street

9:00 p.m. – 1:00 a.m., Pavao Ritter Vitezović Street

2020 the Beat Street – a programme organized by the Hospitality Industry Association of the Primorje-Gorski kotar County. In the evening, Vitezovićeva Street offers dance and performance art:
DJ Sale For Love and DJ Zweck play dance music on a stage set right on the street
Street Entertainers – Jacob Bergant, circus performer
Barmen show – an outdoor flair show hosted by the Three Monkeys

Square One

9:00 p.m. – 2:00 a.m., Verdi Street

The Square One programme is being organized by the Hospitality Industry Association of the Primorje-Gorski kotar County in collaboration with King’s Food Pub. The programme will have the entire street lit and involves the following: Teatro Lounge Bar, Kod Zajca Wine Bar, and the Barmen.hr Barmen Association
Teatro Lounge ECoC party – First Entertainment dance performers, Tony T live saxophone, Manuel Lupen percussions, DJ Chive, Andrej Skedel magic show, dBoki light show – fireworks
Zajc Wine & Music tasting – live rock’n’roll performance at 11:00 p.m.
Rijeka Bartender Cocktail Mashup – outdoor fair show organised by the Barmen.hr association

In the footsteps of LaGuardia

9:00 p.m. – 2:00 a.m., Fiorello Pub on the Korzo

Continuation of the In the Footsteps of LaGuardia – Rijeka Bridge to New York programme
9:00 p.m. Concert by Marko Tolja
11:00 p.m. DJ Jakša
11:30 p.m. Secret Party Fiorello in the Sky

Groovers and Šajeta

9:00 p.m. – 2:00 a.m., Riječka rezolucija Square

Programme continues under the management of the company Promocija. Music programme on the square:
9:00 – 10:30 p.m. Groovers
10:30 p.m. – 12:00 a.m. Šajeta
12:00 – 2:00 a.m. Groovers

Old Stars Rock Festival

9:00 p.m. – 3:00 a.m., Opera/Teatro Fenice, Dolac 13

LP Rock, an Association of Rijeka Rockers of the 60s, brings four hours of rock music performed by rock bands that were active in the wider Rijeka area in the 60s, 70s and 80s. Old Stars Rock Festival presents Rijeka as Croatia’s most rock’n’roll city, while members of the LP Rock Association gather and engage senior citizens in musical activities.  The following bands are performing: Arcamivida, Lady Be Good, Grupa Pan, ’60 River Band, Midnight Band, VIS Šta da, Kristali, Grejs 1, Delta Snake&Lizards, Bad Vlad Bend, Bajok, Norne & Spartaco i prijatelji, Exodus, Grejs 2, Arsenal, Lavine, Superstary & Stern, and Grupa MI.

Porto Etno Orchestra

9:00 p.m. – 3:00 a.m., Club Tunel, Školjić 12

The company Kultura presents a concert by the Porto Etno Orchestra, followed by DJ Rango with a blues/soul/funk set.

Rocker Rijeka Cultural Alternative

9:00 p.m. – 5:00 a.m., River Pub, Frano Supilo Street 12

RRiKA or ‘Rocker Rijeka Cultural Alternative’ is a programme covering the entire evening, organized by the company Targa, featuring writers and musicians. It all begins with the written word and a reading of original works by renowned Rijeka authors – Eliš Papić, Enver Krivac, Dunja Matić Benčić and Davor Mandić. Elisha, Barbara Munjas, the alt-rock band Sillycons and special guests from Bjelovar Them Moose Rush are playing. In the breaks and the early morning hours music will be played by DJ Dog.
9:00 p.m. Reading of original works from the Rijeka literary scene
10:15 p.m. Elisha
11:00 p.m. Barbara Munjas
12:00 a.m. Them Moose Rush
1:00 a.m. Sillycons
1:45 a.m. – 5:00 a.m. DJ Dog

Concert programme organized by Ri Rock

9:00 p.m. – 5:00 a.m., Palach, Kružna 8

The concert programme by the legendary Ri Rock Association offers a mix of musical genres and expressions, featuring performances by the eclectic duo Stereo Banana from Niš, the Rijeka and Pula-based Techno Vikings, comprising four saxophones and a drum, Roma Kali Fat Dub (Ljubljana/Zagreb), the Ljubljana reggae DJ Harris Pilton, the band Knutov Kofer from Zurich, whose fifth album was written in Croatian, and Buco and Kalašnjikovi (Krk).

I’m Staying in Rijeka

9:00 p.m. – 12:00 a.m., Tito Square/Cont

I’m Staying in Rijeka: Enjoy the urban sounds of: Žulj, Speedclaw, Krematorium, Padre, Divlji detektivi, and Iz@ Medošević and friends – poetry and live performance, and Marinada, as part of the Rijeka tent/FKK tent programme from the company Novi turizam, which is arranging an entire day socializing with a cultural and artistic flavour, inspired by Rijeka’s past and present, with a humanitarian character.

Retros rock&blues band

10:00 p.m., Kings cafe (next to the Financial Agency), Fran Kurelac Street 3A

Retros rock&blues band and a presentation of Rijeka’s oldest refreshing drink

ECoC Ri Rock after party

10:30 p.m. – 4:00 a.m., Pogon kulture, Strossmayerova 1

In Pogon kulture, the RIKUPU Association presents the ECoC RI ROCK AFTER PARTY:
9:00 p.m. DJ
10:30 p.m. Fit
11:30 p.m. Paraf
12:30 a.m. Denis&Denis
1:30 a.m. Jonathan
3:00 a.m. DJ

RI2020 Official Tech House Afterhours by D’n’D

10:30 p.m. – 06:00 a.m., Crkva Club, Ružićeva 22

The Crkva Club is organizing: RI2020 Official Tech House Afterhours by D’n’D

Bronski and Herya established the Deep’n’Delicious collective six years ago. They have already performed at numerous great parties in Zagreb and Rijeka and introduced various new performers of the growing Romanian Twch House scene to Croatian audiences, following their own passion for the Romanian electronic sound.

Nicky Siano from Studio 54

11:00 p.m. – 5:00 a.m., Discordia, Erazmo Barčić Street 1 A

The 4 kroz 4 Association presents the pioneer of New York’s 1970s music scene and one of the most important names in the history of disco music – DJ Nicky Sian! Nicky is the owner and designer of the venue considered to be the first New York disco club, THE GALLERY, and the first resident of STUDIO 54. He is directly credited with the careers of disco stars like Grace Jones, Loleatta Holloway and D.C. LaRue. He was a mentor to Larry Levan and Frankie Knuckles, who later started a movement in Chicago known to us all as House Music. 11:00 p.m. – 2:00 a.m. Host DJ Mile Hund – disco, boogie, garage and funk; 02:00 – 04:00 a.m. NICKY SIANO (NY)

POTHODNIK – underground party

11:00 p.m. – 6:00 a.m., Pothodnik: Circcolo – market, Ivan Zajc Street

POTHODNIK is quite literally an underground party directed by two prominent Rijeka collectives, TIPSY and Innerspace. The venue itself, established DJs and the sophisticated music selection will make this party a unique club event in Rijeka. The programme includes the following performers: Carnero, di.merkl, Ivna Ji and Samo Tako.

Musical performances in tunnels beneath the city

11:00 p.m. – 6:00 a.m., Tunnels beneath the city, Grivica Street

The Urban Culture Association and the company Kultura d.o.o., as part of the DISTRIKT:TUNNELS programme is organizing musical performances in tunnels beneath the city. DISTRIKT STAGE: Marina Karamarko, Ana Antonova, Kasja, Zilla, Boo Dale; DRAMA STAGE: Filip Motovunski, Mecena, Sven Nalis, Antwone, Raul B; TUNNEL STAGE: Virgin Helena, Amor, Roland, Brx

Cosmopolitan Music

12:00 – 5:00 a.m., Tito Square/Cont

Cosmopolitan Music: dance to the rhythms of Ivo Zuban (DJ FIGLIO) from Pula, a great admirer of the rhythms and sounds of Rijeka – as part of the Rijeka tent/FKK tent programme of the company Novi turizam, which is arranging an entire day socializing with a cultural and artistic flavour, inspired by Rijeka’s past and present, with a humanitarian character.

Electro-pop duo The Siids.

12:00 – 06 a.m., Život Club, Ružićeva 4

ŽIVOT Club presents:
12:00 – 2:00 a.m. Electro-pop duo The Siids.
One of the most promising young bands in Rijeka is celebrating its two-year adventure by creating musical treats in the style of global indie hits, while maintaining the sensibility of the best of the legacy of synthpop and the post-punk era.
2:00 – 6:00 a.m. DJ Željko Bašković is hosting an outrageous and dazzling dance party in the club Život. Polish your dancing shoes!

Opera Industriale in the Rijeka Port

Before the eyes of Europe, Rijeka pays homage to its workers, artistic avant-garde and the tradition of the region that surrounds it, whilst at the same time reminding us of the fundamental social values on which modern Europe was built.

Rijeka Port – Port of Diversity

The central opening programme takes place in the Rijeka Port, a space that, surrounded by piers and the Molo Longo, represents a strong point of identity for Rijeka. In the history and present of the city, the port was and is a symbol of a modern and open Rijeka. Here, ships would sail into the city, and bring with them people, ideas, innovations, invaders, and liberators. It is the port that made Rijeka enticing to all, and it was thanks to the port that Rijeka survived and endured. Generations of port workers and seafarers provided for their families by working in the port and on the sea.

But it was much more than that – the port indirectly expanded the horizon and outlook of the people of Rijeka and the surrounding region, and made them into an open and tolerant people who embrace diversity, and who, when faced with something different and new, see opportunity and possibility rather than rejection and denial. It is for precisely this reason that the port has been selected as the venue for the European Capital of Culture opening ceremony.

With the symbolism of this space, Rijeka is sending a message to Europe about the significance of the Port of Diversity, and about the harmony that is only possible if there is a safe harbour accepting sails of all colours.

Work and pride, rebellion and the avant-garde, heritage and tradition

In the central artistic programme of the opening ceremony, Rijeka thematically gathers important parts of its identity in the urban Opera Industriale, based on the musical template of the Rijeka art duo JMZM – Josip Maršić (CRO) and Zoran Medved (CRO) – and on the orchestration of the Croatian composer, maestro Fran Đurović (CRO). More than a hundred performers will perform on the big stage, located at De Franceschi’s Pier in the Rijeka Port, with the programme even involving the audience.

Welders, sparks, the noise of grinders and drills, metalware and ironworks – symbols of labour and the workers who built Rijeka with pride. With the sounds of industry, the opening ceremony expresses respect for and pays homage to the working class and conveys a message about the dignity and strength of workers in the life of a modern city.

Labour, new ideas, the city’s industry and its rise represent the bedrock on which the historic and contemporary Rijeka was built. It is here, in the city that has always boldly pursued progress, that the poet of the obscene grew up, an uncompromising artist who announced the arrival of a European avant-garde with the power of his written word – Janko Polić Kamov.  With its opening programme, Rijeka brings the energy of his lyrics, upholding thereby the European status and magnitude of its author. Kamov transcended the physical boundaries of Rijeka and Croatia, as well as the artistic boundaries of Europe at the time, ushering in a new era, a revolution, and a literary avant-garde.

Kamov lived in a Rijeka divided between the Hungarian and Croatian governments, as accustomed to change as all future generations of this city, which saw incredibly frequent changes of rule under which it has developed throughout its history. The arrivals of different conquerors, their passage through the city, and their strength and power have woven into Rijeka an innate clarity in distinguishing good from evil. This is why, from its more recent history, Rijeka wholeheartedly nurtures its legacy of European historical anti-fascism, reflected today in the openness and tolerance of its citizens, and their respect for human rights. This historical European anti-fascist position of Rijeka is also emphasized in the opening programme, reminding Europe of the fundamental social values on which it was built in the modern period, after the suffering of the last pan-European war.

It is a city whose past was marked by borders that opened precisely because it learned how to transcend, ignore and change them. The creative energy and the power of artists were a reflection of their resistance in times when the position and goals of art were diminished and questioned. It was this resistance, but also the city’s orientation towards the Western European cultural circle, that created the propulsive energy of Rijeka’s punk and rock, and the power of the sound of electric guitars, which represented a rebellious and bold Rijeka at the time.

And finally, not forgetting for a single moment one tradition and its all-encompassing, almost magical energy upon which life in the city rests in its primordial form, Rijeka is concluding its opening ceremony with the strongest sound that has echoed through it since ancient times. In an ancient magical pagan ritual, bell ringers will create an enormous noise with their bells, driving away winter and heralding spring in the European Capital of Culture, a new era that Rijeka is entering on 1 February 2020.

Sound and light

Devoted to these themes, the Opera Industriale is performed live by numerous performers to backing tracks, combining sounds of the city, industry and noise, classical instruments, choral singing, ringing bells and sounds of the audience, which is actively involved in the performance. Sound, music and noise, effects created by a combination of light and darkness, powerful symbols of Rijeka and Europe – this is the crux of the attractive opening ceremony programme.

The Opera Industriale is performed by the House of Extreme Musical Theatre of Damir Bartol Indoš (CRO) in collaboration with the Rumorists, who play unique instruments – the schachtophones – and musicians playing two prepared pianos, guitars, bass, drums and the saxophone.  The performance also includes a particularly intriguing Finnish men’s chorus that performs by shouting, rattling and screaming – Mieskuoro Huutajat (FI). Also performing on the main stage is the mixed choir Jeka Primorja, led by Igor Vlajnić (CRO) and an orchestra of strings and wind instruments on cellos, the double bass, clarinets, trumpets and trombones. An ensemble of twenty-five Rijeka guitarists, ten drummers, dancers and a workers’ orchestra of grinders, welders and sparks are also included in the performance. The audience, situated along the Molo Longo, is given the opportunity to ring, cheer, make noise and create light, thus participating in the performance as a living instrument that represents the people – the most powerful part of the city’s identity.

A number of custom designed spatial light installations will be positioned at several locations within the port, with smaller illuminated boats also taking part in the programme. Screens arranged throughout the port area will show a video that combines the performance on the main stage, images of the audience on the Molo Longo, and other visual elements.  The Pixel Wall, a light installation positioned in front of the Maritime Passenger Terminal building on the Molo Longo, shows text messages of various content and select pictograms, as does the Migrant Waves light installation further below on the breakwater. Light installations are also positioned on the Ri Department Store building and backstage on De Franceschi’s Pier. At three different locations leading to the port, spatial installations are placed – kaleidoscopes composed of a modular scaffolding and lighting that illuminates the interior space.  The end of the ceremony will be visually marked by fireworks and a special artistic light installation by a contemporary art group from Mexico, Ale de la Puente.

Audience

The area intended for the audience extends along the entire port area, on all piers.  The Molo Longo auditorium is also the area envisaged for the audience participation in the programme. With a part of the programme taking place centrally on the main stage on De Franceschi’s Pier and other parts of the programme arranged elsewhere along the waterfront, viewers and participants can watch the programme live on video screens in the port area.

Opening Ceremony in the Theatre

In the late afternoon, the ceremonial part of the ECoC opening will be held in the CNT Ivan pl. Zajc.

The programme includes short music and stage performances and welcome speeches, attended by high-ranking officials from Europe and Croatia – representatives of the EU Commission, ministers of culture of European countries, representatives of previous and future European Capitals of Culture, ambassadors, the diplomatic corps and more.

This part of the programme features the Rijeka Putokazi, Mr.Lee & IvaneSky, Diana Haller, members of the CNT Ballet Ensemble, Kristina Kolar, Robert Kolar, Domagoj Dorotić, Rijeka Opera Choir, Rijeka Symphony Orchestra, a string quartet of musicians from the Rijeka Symphony Orchestra, and musicians that are part of the Rijeka super band Ri-Val.

The poet Moya Cannon (reciting the poem Song of Imbolc) and harpist Kathleen Loughnane (accompaniment on the Irish harp) are arriving from Galway to perform as part of the programme. The poem Song of Imbolc was specially written for the spring portion of the Galway 2020 programme and will be performed live in Rijeka for the first time.

As part of the programme, speeches will be delivered by the Rijeka 2020 Company Director, the Mayor of Rijeka, the Prefect of the Primorje-Gorski Kotar County and Minister of Culture of Republic of Croatia.

Also, EU Commissioner for Innovation, Research, Culture, Education and Youth Mariya Gabriel will address the audience via video message and the Vice-President of the European Commission for Demography and Democracy Dubravka Šuica will deliver a speech and present the Mayor of Rijeka with a European Capital of Culture plaque and Melina Mercouri plaque awarded by the European Union for an extraordinarily prepared programme.

Upon the completion of the ceremonial portion of the evening, the dignitaries will also attend the central opening programme in the Rijeka Port.

Start: 5:00 p.m.
Duration: 90 minutes
Hosts: Leonora Surian Popov and Edi Ćelić

1. “Our Beautiful Homeland”, Croatian national anthem
Performed by the vocal group Putokazi

2. “Nije dobro”, song
Performed by MR.LEE & IVANESKY

3. Speech by Mayor of Rijeka, Vojko Obersnel

4. G. F. Händel: “Dopo notte”, aria from the Baroque opera “Ariodante”
Performed by: Diana Haller (mezzo-soprano) and the Rijeka Symphony Orchestra; conductor: Kalle Kuusava

5. Speech by the Director of Rijeka 2020, Emina Višnić

6. Ivan pl. Zajc: “Nikola Šubić Zrinjski”,
finale of the opera “To battle, to battle!”
Performed by: Kristina Kolar (soprano), Domagoj Dorotić (tenor), Robert Kolar (baritone), the Rijeka Opera Choir and the Rijeka Symphony Orchestra; conductor: Zoran Juranić

7. Speech by the Primorje-Gorski Kotar County Prefect, Zlatko Komadina

8. “Lace”, a sequence from the ballet on Pag lace by choreographer, Maša Kolar
Performed by: members of the ballet ensemble of the CNT Ivan pl. Zajc

9. Speech by the Minister of Culture of the Republic of Croatia, Nina Obuljen Koržinek

10. “Song of Imbolc”, poem
Performed by: Irish poet Moya Cannon, accompanied by Kathleen Loughnane on the harp

11. Zoran Juranić: “An Opera after Kamov”, Prologue to the Opera
Performed by: Diana Haller (mezzo-soprano), Rijeka Opera Choir and the Rijeka Symphony Orchestra; conductor: Zoran Juranić

12. Video message by EU Commissioner for Innovation, Research, Culture, Education and Youth Mariya Gabriel and awarding of the European Capital of Culture title;
The title will be presented to the Mayor of Rijeka, Vojko Obersnel by the Vice-President of the European Commission for Demography and Democracy, Dubravka Šuica

13. Speech by the Vice-President of the European Commission for Demography and Democracy, Dubravka Šuica

14. From “Ode to Joy” to “Rijeka Dearest”
based on the works of Ludwig van Beethoven and Damir Badurina, arrangement by Frano Đurović
Performed by: Kristina Kolar (soprano) and the String Quartet of the Rijeka Symphony Orchestra

15. “My City”
Performed by: RiVal Group