Back by popular demand, Joburg Theatre and Marcus Desando are pleased to present the second edition of Cantiamo, Mzansi Opera Celebration at the Mandela Theatre, Joburg Theatre complex from April 22 until May 2 in celebration of South African opera singers that have cemented their place on local and international stages.
The programme will showcase some of the most popular opera arias and ensembles and there will be a selection of local compositions as part of the concert to celebrate South Africa’s contribution to the global opera repertoire.
This concert celebrates the exceptional talents of four local soloists who have established themselves in the worldwide opera, oratorio and concert arenas.
Lyric soprano, Kimmy Skota (Rigoletto,The Magic Flute, Starlight Classics), baritone Bongani Khubeka (Don Giovanni, Handel’s Messiah, Last Night at the Proms), mezzo soprano Teresa de Wit (Madama Butterfly, Verdi’s La Traviata, Carmen) and tenor Phenye Modiane (Cosi fan tutte, La Traviata, La Boheme) will be accompanied by Paul Ferreira (Madama Butterfly, Le nozze di Figaro, Tiger Bay) on piano and supported by the Vivacious Sounds Choir.
Following its highly successful debut season in October last year, the second edition of Cantiamo – Mzansi Opera Celebration features popular opera arias and ensembles from Mozart’s Le Nozze di Figaro, Donizetti’s Lucia di Lammermoor, Rossini’s Il Barbiere di Siviglia and Verdi’s La Traviata, together with a selection of extracts from works by local composers including Mohau Mogale’s Tribute to Nelson Mandela, as well as Mzilikazi Khumalo’s Princess Magogo. This wide-ranging programme concludes with the Inkathazo Koloi medley of traditional songs.
‘The home-grown operatic talents of this country’s singers has showcased South African voices around the world and produced many internationally recognised opera stars. We are honoured to celebrate unforgettable opera at the Mandela Theatre, in the company of four wonderful soloists accompanied by master pianist, Paul Ferreira,’ says Joburg City Theatres CEO Xoliswa Nduneni Ngema.
Cantiamo – Mzansi Opera Celebration, directed by renowned artistic producer and director Marcus Desando (Black Tie Ensemble, BTE VO1ss, Gauteng Opera, CEO Arts & Culture Trust) made its highly successful debut season at the Mandela Theatre in October last year.
In line with current Covid-19 regulations, seats are limited. Special discounted tickets at R70 a person are available for the 2pm full dress rehearsal and the 7pm preview on April 22 as well as 7pm previews on April 23 and 24. Tickets for performances of this special live programme cost R200 a person for all 7pm performances and Sunday shows begin at 3pm.
With theatre seating currently limited to a total of 250 guests, patrons are urged to book as soon as possible to avoid disappointment. All Covid-19 health and safety protocols are strictly adhered to. Patrons are reminded to uphold social distancing and masks must be worn at all times, covering both nose and mouth. To allow for sufficient time for screening and sanitising procedures, patrons are encouraged to arrive at least 30 minutes prior to show starting times.
Details: Book now online at joburgtheatre.com or webtickets.co.za
