To be, or not to be

Experience the profound beauty and enduring power of Pēteris Vasks’ Cello Concerto No. 1, a work deeply rooted in the history and soul of Latvia. Celebrated composer Vasks, a towering figure in contemporary music and a national treasure, explores themes of heritage, hope, and the unique spirit of the Baltic landscape – a journey interwoven with universal human experience and profound spirituality. This captivating concert film is uniquely enhanced by a dramatic narrative featuring excerpts from Laurence Olivier’s iconic 1948 film adaptation of Hamlet, considered a cinematic masterpiece. Renowned actor Simon Callow, familiar to audiences from *Amadeus* and *Four Weddings and a Funeral*, delivers the unforgettable "To be, or not to be" soliloquies, adding a layer of Shakespearean depth to the performance. Complementing Vasks’ evocative concerto is a brilliant concert suite adapted from William Walton’s score for Olivier’s *Hamlet*, creating a truly unforgettable fusion of music, drama, and visual artistry. Prepare to be moved by this exceptional performance, a testament to the enduring power of both music and theater.