Australian audiences are in for a rare theatrical treat as the Estonian production “Tõll” sets off on a national tour this February, coinciding with celebrations of Estonian Independence Day. Touring Perth, Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane, this captivating performance is set to be a highlight of the festivities – a fitting reminder of the creativity and resilience of Estonians everywhere.
“Tõll” is performed by the Kuressaare Theatre from the Estonian island of Saaremaa. The play explores the creation of myths and legends, drawing audiences into the mystical world of heroic tales and folklore. Bringing the magic of Estonian theatre to Perth, Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane, this performance promises to offer an unforgettable cultural experience.
“Tõll” is inspired by the legendary Estonian giant Suur Tõll, a mythical figure from Saaremaa who was known for his superhuman strength and willingness to help those in need. Whether battling storms, overcoming famine, or defending against invaders, Tõll was a symbol of resilience and heroism. Though he remains unseen in the play, the production instead delves into how myths are born, why people believe in extraordinary beings, and how such stories shape cultural identity.
Written by renowned Estonian author Andrus Kivirähk and directed by Aare Toikka, “Tõll” features performances by Piret Rauk and Loviise Kapper, with music composed by Veiko Tubin and choreography by Marge Ehrenbusch. The play is performed in Estonian with English subtitles and runs for approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes.
Find tour dates and booking information below.
Perth
Theatre Night with EstWest
Date: Friday, 21 February 2025
Time: 6.00 PM
Location: Jonesway Theatre, 446–448 William St, Northbridge WA 6000
Tickets: TryBooking – Perth
Dive into the world of legends and storytelling with our upcoming theatre night! EstWest invites you to experience “Tõll” by Andrus Kivirähk, a captivating exploration of how myths are born and dreams take shape. This is a great opportunity to connect with fellow Estonians, celebrate Estonian Independence Day, and enjoy the richness of our culture and stories.
Program
- 6.00 PM – Doors and bar open
- 6.25 PM – An Acknowledgment of Country
- 6.30 PM – Theatre play starts
- 8.00 PM – Theatre play ends
- Guests are welcome to stay for an extra hour to socialise and enjoy good company.
Tickets
$40 per ticket, buy online
Read more
Melbourne
Independence Day Ceremony & Theatre Café
Date: Sunday, 23 February 2025
Time: 2.00 PM Independence Day ceremony, 3.00 PM Theatre performance
Location: Melbourne Estonian House, 43 Melville Road, Brunswick West 3055
Tickets: Humanitix – Melbourne
Come celebrate Estonian Independence Day with us! Enjoy a special ceremony at 2 PM (free event), then stay for the theatre performance “Tõll” at 3 PM (buy a ticket). Nibble on delicious free snacks, sip some coffee or buy yourself something stronger from the bar and enjoy a performance that’s larger than life – just like the elusive Tõll himself.
Program
- 1.30 PM – Doors and bar open
- 2.00 PM – Independence Day ceremony begins
- Welcome – Chair of the Melbourne Estonian Society
- Performance – Melbourne Estonian Ladies Choir
- Speech – Estonian Ambassador to Australia, Jaan Reinhold
- Award presentation – Ambassador presents recognition to Matti Kiviväli
- Acknowledgements – Recognitions to the activity group leads
- National Anthem – Let’s sing together!
- Coffee & Conversation – Enjoy a break before the theatre performance
- 3.00 PM – Theatre performance “Tõll” begins
- 4.30 PM – Theatre performance ends, social time after, bar open
Tickets
$25 for members (buy online until 21 February)
$30 for non-members (buy online until 21 February)
$40 at the door (members and non-members)
Read more
Event invitation from the Melbourne Estonian Society here
Sydney
Estonian Independence Day Concert | Theatre performance
Date: Saturday, 23 February 2025 | Friday, 28 February 2025
Time: 2.00 PM | 7.00 PM
Location: Sydney Estonian House, 141 Campbell Street, Surry Hills NSW 2010
Tickets: TryBooking – Sydney concert tickets & Trybooking – Sydney theatre tickets
The Estonian Society of Sydney will celebrate the Estonian Independence Day with a concert on Sunday, 23 February 2025 at 2.00 PM.
“Tõll” theatre performance will be a separate event on Friday, 28 February 2025 at 7.00 PM.
Program
- Sunday, 23 February 2025 at 2.00 PM – Independence Day Concert begins
- Speeches, performances and refreshments
- The concert finishes at 3.30 PM, social time after
- Friday, 28 February 2025 at 7.00 PM – Theatre performance “Tõll”
- The performance finishes at 8.30 PM, social time after.
Tickets
$35 for members of Estonian Society of Sydney, $40 for non-members: “Tõll” theatre performance
Free for members, $5 for non-members: Independence Day Concert
Read more
Estonian Society of Sydney Facebook page here
Brisbane
Brisbane Estonian Club Independence Day celebrations & Theatre performance
Date: Saturday, 1 March 2025
Time: 5.30 PM Independence Day celebrations, 7.00 PM Theatre performance
Location: Latvian House, 24 Church Avenue, Wooloongabba QLD 4102
Tickets: TryBooking – Brisbane
The Brisbane Estonian Club has a special treat for you to celebrate the Independence Day. Before the much awaited theatre performance “Tõll” begins – enjoy a dynamic performance by renowned performer and musician/drummer Jaan Kirss and daughter Helena Victoria.
Program
- 5.00 PM – Brisbane Estonian Society Annual General Meeting
- 5.30 PM – Independence Day celebrations begin
- Performance by Jaan Kirss and Helena Victoria
- Bar open: cold Estonian beers and Vana Tallinn cocktails on offer
- Festive cake and homemade treats from generous guests
- 7.00 PM – Theatre performance “Tõll” starts
- 8.20 PM – Theatre performance ends, social time after, bar open
Tickets
$40 per ticket, buy online
Read more
Brisbane Estonian Club Facebook page
Resources in Estonian
A video clip and more about the “Tõll” theatre performance: err.ee
Photos, reviews and media links: Kuressaare Theatre website
