Kaija Saariaho's opera "Innocence," which delves into the enduring trauma of a school shooting, is making its Metropolitan Opera debut in New York on Monday, March 11, 2026. The 110-minute production, first staged in 2021, explores the ripple effects of a devastating attack at an international school in Finland, focusing on the survivors and community. Mezzo-soprano Joyce DiDonato, portraying the mother of a victim, emphasized the importance of presenting this story in America amidst the ongoing reality of school violence, noting at least eight such incidents this year. The opera interweaves scenes from a wedding with the moments surrounding the tragedy, highlighting the lasting impact on all involved, including the shooter's relatives and survivors grappling with trauma. DiDonato views the opera as a commentary on the pervasive violence in contemporary society, including war and deportations, and hopes it can provoke reflection on gun violence and other injustices.