SIT DOWN – Peace Child

Peace Child, the musical that has seen more than 10,000 performances worldwide since the 1980s, now arrives in a brand-new production from Ljubljana to the prestigious Vienna Konzerthaus. 

The project brings together 210 young artists from 22 nationalities, united by music, creativity, and the desire for peace. Under the artistic direction of conductor Živa Ploj Peršuh, the orchestra, choir, and young narrators create a powerful musical narrative with a clear message: peace is possible if we build it together. Set in a fictional world rife with conflict, children use creativity and courage to foster unity and reconciliation. The production blends musical grandeur with heartfelt narrative—engaging and inspiring audiences of all ages toward solidarity, hope, and responsibility. 

The production is part of the international initiative SIT DOWN, which, on the occasion of the 80th anniversary of the United Nations, offers young people a global stage to express their visions for the future. Through music, they address themes such as peace, global justice, climate change, migration, solidarity, and the responsible use of new technologies. Their message to the world is clear: sit down with us, listen, and take action. 

Every Note Is a Promise for a More Peaceful World 
Peace Child is not just a performance—it is a manifestation of youth’s collective aspiration for a better future. Every melody, movement, and spoken word carries a message of hope, unity, and responsibility. 

Performers: Slovenian Youth Orchestra with guest musicians and singers 
Conductor: Živa Ploj Peršuh 
Music and Lyrics: David Gordon 
Script: David Woollcombe and Lydia Mushkatina with Alessandro Asselin, Adrian Grošelj, Pia Fabijan and  Shea Ferron 
Arragements of Songs: Matija Krečič 
Director: Matej Filipčič 

Production: Slovenian Youth Orchestra, Peace Child International Foundation (London) 
Peace Child is based on The Peace Book by Bernard Benson 

Narrators: Dominic Mafham, Lydia Mushkatina, Shea Ferron, Alessandro Asselin, Adrian Grošelj, Pia Fabijan