MUSSAKATE JÕULUD: performance at Koidula Museum and its garden

Mussakad are not house spirits, ghosts or elves, but a quite different kind of creature. They feed on the dust of time and on memories of old days, so they live in old houses, where old things have been brought in rather than taken away. They like objects that have stories best, which is why they prefer museums as homes.

They come alive when the museum door is locked and the lights go out, and they try very hard to behave like real people.

Why are people so restless in this cold, grey season? Because they are getting ready for Christmas! So the mussakad must celebrate Christmas too, but how?

Before Christmas we get to know these friendly but slightly strange creatures in the house and garden of the Koidula Museum. We can play and make crafts with them. During the performance we learn about old things and everyday life, above all how Christmas was celebrated in 19th-century Estonia.

Length: about 1.5 hours. The performance starts in the garden, so dress for the weather. Suitable for children aged 6–10.

The ticket includes the performance, a small snack and a craft activity. Children must be accompanied by an adult, who needs a companion ticket.

Prices: until 31 October, child €14, companion ticket €5; 1–30 November, child €16, companion ticket €7.

Groups can book the performance on 1 December at 9:30 or 12:00, 7 December at 9:30 or 12:00, and 8 December at 12:00. Accompanying teachers and support staff attend free; other adults pay the €5 companion ticket.

Cast: Elmar Trink, Lili Välimäe or Katrin Soomets, Kadri Rebane or Silve Saliste, Katrin Suu or Kristel Põder. Director: Meelis Sarv. Designers: Triin Tamman and Kadri Rebane. Authors: Meelis Sarv and Katrin Suu.

The original production was made by Pärnu Museum together with Täna va’Teater and is supported by the Estonian Cultural Endowment.