In 1910, the Norwegian-American immigrant composer Gerard Tonning (1860-1940) debuted his first opera, the viking drama Leif Erikson at the Moore Theatre in Seattle. With financial help from the Sons of Norway and the local Norwegian immigrant community, this opera telling the stories of Leif Erikson's voyage to Vinland in the year 1001 came to life on stage, only to be forgotten again for the next century.

October 9 is officially "Leif Erikson Day", and this date in 2025 also marks the 200th anniversary of the beginning of mass Norwegian immigration to the USA. To celebrate, the Northwest Edvard Grieg Society (in collaboration with Puget Sound Concert Opera) will present a series of concerts that brings Steven Luksan's new reconstruction of the opera Leif Erikson back to the stage.

Look for Steven Luksan's forthcoming article about Gerard Tonning and the opera Leif Erikson for more information about this fascinating piece of history.

We welcome volunteer singers of any ability to join our chorus for the Cantata.

Rehearsal Dates at Ballard First Lutheran Church

Singers must be available for multiple performances and rehearsals.

Wed. 9/24 @ 7pm

Mon. 9/29 @ 7pm

Sat. 10/4 @ 6pm

Sun. 10/5 @ 2pm

Tues. 10/7 @ 6:30pm (Dress Rehearsal)

Performance Dates at Venues throughout King County

Thursday, October 9, 2025 - 7pm @ venue in south King County (TBD)

Friday, October 10, 2025 - 7pm @ Cross of Christ Lutheran Church, Bellevue, WA

Sunday, October 12, 2025 - 2pm @ Ballard First Lutheran Church, Seattle, WA