Notorious names at the eighth edition of the "DescOperă" open-air classical music festival
Over 150 artists, including soloists and chorus members from the "Maria Bieşu" National Opera Theater, performed Verdi's opera "Aida" last night on an improvised stage in the "Orheiul Vechi" reservation. This performance took place in a stunning natural landscape during the inauguration of the eighth edition of the "DescOperă" open-air classical music festival, an event organized by the Ministry of Culture.
"Aida" was performed under the open sky for the first time, presenting a real challenge for the entire team at the National Opera and Ballet Theatre (TNOB) "Maria Biesu."
"In this setting, it’s a bit more complicated, but we set out to do this because it’s something new. It’s not an ordinary show; it’s a performance that brings many people to the stage," said Nicolae Dohotaru, the general director of the National Opera and Ballet Theatre.
"We typically present several premieres, as we haven't yet explored our entire repertoire at the theatre. That’s why almost every year, we introduce a new production," said soprano Rodica Picireanu.
The tragic love story between Radames and Aida is set in Ancient Egypt.
For the role of General Radames, tenor Teodor Ilincăi from Romania was invited. He has performed on numerous stages around the world and shared his excitement about the event: “It's my first time in Chișinău and my first collaboration with this festival, which I've wanted to do for a long time. I found a wonderful atmosphere, with very disciplined people in both the choir and the orchestra.”
The joy of experiencing the magic of opera exceeded the expectations of many spectators, including politicians and representatives from the diplomatic corps.
“I’m glad to see such an event in Moldova. I haven’t been home for a long time, and I enjoy witnessing how our culture has developed,” remarked one attendee.
EU Ambassador to the Republic of Moldova, Janis Mazeiks, added, “For me, it’s a unique opportunity to come together with my family, particularly my son who is on a visit. It’s a chance to hear 'Aida' in a remarkable setting.”
The "DescOperă" festival will continue with performances by the bands of the "Serghei Lunchevici" National Philharmonic.
"We have an exceptional program featuring our orchestra, along with four soloists and a conductor from the Opera in Oviedo, Spain. The second part of the concert will showcase the famous 'Carmina Burana' by Carl Orff, performed by our orchestra, choir, and soloists Tatiana Costiuc and two guests from Ukraine, with Mihai Agafiţa conducting," stated Svetlana Bivol, the director of the "Serghei Lunchevici" National Philharmonic.
The festival will conclude on Sunday with the touching love story "La Bohème" by Giacomo Puccini, performed by artists from the Bucharest National Opera.
