The opera Turandot, a favorite among classical repertoire enthusiasts, will mark the grand finale of the 59th edition of the opera season in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria-Alfredo Kraus. The performances, scheduled for June 16, 18, and 20 at the Teatro Pérez Galdós, will feature a cast debuting on the island and a production involving around a hundred people.
Ukrainian soprano Liudmyla Monastyrska, who recently starred in the role at the New York Metropolitan, takes on the part of Princess Turandot. Monastyrska expressed her joy at singing in Gran Canaria with the version completed by Franco Alfano, noting that this version ends with the word 'love,' symbolizing Turandot's transformation from a cold woman.
Italian tenor Angelo Villari, originally from Messina, will also make his debut on the island as Calaf. Villari described the role as 'complicated to sing,' particularly the aria 'Nessun dorma.' The artist praised the positive and tranquil working atmosphere of the production, feeling very comfortable on the island.
Mexican soprano María Belén Rivarola will portray Liù, marking her debut in Spain and with the ACO (Amigos Canarios de la Ópera). She highlighted the excellent rehearsal atmosphere for this work, considered 'the end of romantic opera'.
Stage direction is handled by Daniele Piscopo, who aims to remain faithful to Puccini's vision with a grand set design evoking the ancient Chinese world of the era. The production integrates the chorus, soloists, gymnasts, children's choir, and extras, creating a staging that evolves from darkness to light, showcasing the composer's more luminous and comedic side.
As a special initiative, the third and final performance on June 20 will be broadcast live and free of charge on a giant screen in the plaza de Stagno, as part of the Foundational Festivities celebrating the city's 548th anniversary.
Ulises Jaén, artistic director of the ACO, described the season as 'the most difficult and committed,' emphasizing the success of presenting five complex titles. He believes the closing with 'Turandot' will be 'fantastic'.
