DANIEL CAJANUS

The Finnish giant Daniel Cajanus. born in Finland in 1704, traveled through Europe to exhibit himself in Royal houses and on Faincy Fairs. He held various positions as bodyguard and worked as a soldier for King August in Poland. Via England and France he finally reached Amsterdam, where he was exhibited in the Menagerie, amidst all sorts of exotic animal species. When his health deteriorated, he bought himself in at the Proveniershuis in Haarlem, to be cared for until his death. He was buried in St. Bavo church in Haarlem. His funeral was a real attraction; the whole of Haarlem seems to have been on its feet to see the gigantic carriage.

On the 24th of July 2019, Cajanus – a giant opera will have its Finnish première in Paltaniemi, Kajaani, the place of birth of the giant. Giant’s story comes now full circle since the original premiere of the opera was performed in St. Bavo church in Haarlem. At the Eino Leino House the Dutch cast from Zangstudio Haarlem will perform Egon Kracht and Hetty Heytings beautiful opera in the open air, alternately in Dutch and in Finnish language. Up to 80 Dutch and Finnish singers, actors, dancers from Kajaani Dance will participate in this spectaculary show!