Ardo Ran Varres

Ardo Ran Varres, born on March 19, 1974, in Tallinn, is a distinguished Estonian composer and actor with a multifaceted career in the performing arts. His musical journey began at the Tallinn Music High School, where he honed his skills as a clarinetist from 1981 to 1992. He furthered his education at the Estonian Academy of Music, graduating in 1996 as an actor from the Higher Theatre School. Varres expanded his composition expertise under Helena Tulve from 2009 to 2011.

From 1991 to 1993, he showcased his musical talent with the Especially Sad Music Ensemble, and his acting prowess flourished at Rakvere Theatre (1996-2001) and the Estonian Drama Theatre (2001-2003), where he was recognized as one of the leading young actors in Estonia. He served as the music director at the Estonian Drama Theatre from 2003 to 2011 and has since embraced a freelance career.

As a member of the Estonian Composers Union since 2007, Varres has composed music for over 50 productions, including theater, film, and radio, collaborating with various directors across Estonia and beyond, including performances in Finland, Denmark, and Germany. He is also known for his voice work in popular Estonian television series, including the local adaptation of SpongeBob SquarePants.

In 2022, Varres made a significant mark in opera with the premiere of his first opera, "The New Old Nick of Hellsbottom," at Theatre Vanemuine, featuring a libretto by Kristi Klopets based on A. H. Tammsaare's work, with Risto Joost as the musical director and conductor.