World’s Greatest Tenor, Jonas Kaufmann, to Grace Sydney Opera House’s 50th Birthday Celebrations
Mark your calendars for two exclusive concert performances of Ponchielli’s La Gioconda at the Sydney Opera House, as the iconic venue celebrates its 50th anniversary in grand style. The performances will take place on August 9 and 12, 2023, at the Concert Hall, featuring an all-star cast of some of the world’s leading opera singers.
Leading the ensemble is the acclaimed German tenor, Jonas Kaufmann, often referred to as the ‘world’s greatest living tenor.’ He will be making his role debut as Enzo Grimaldo, making it his first appearance at the Sydney Opera House since 2019. Opera enthusiasts can expect an exceptional performance from Kaufmann, known for his powerful and emotive voice that has captivated audiences worldwide.
Joining Kaufmann on stage is celebrated Spanish soprano Saioa Hernández, making her Sydney Opera House debut in the titular role of Gioconda. Hernández, awarded Best Soprano of the Year in the 2021 Oscar della Lirica competition, has been hailed as ‘the diva of our century’ by the legendary Montserrat Caballé.
Adding to the star-studded lineup is Australia’s own mezzo-soprano Deborah Humble, returning to perform with Opera Australia after a decade. The renowned French baritone, Ludovic Tézier, will reunite with Kaufmann to portray the vengeful Barnaba. Additionally, Polish mezzo-soprano Agnieszka Rehlis, currently making her Australian debut as Amneris in Aida, will take on the role of Laura Badoero, and Ukrainian bass Vitalij Kowaljow will delight audiences as Alvise Badoero.
The Opera Australia Orchestra and Chorus will be under the direction of distinguished conductor Pinchas Steinberg, who previously earned acclaim for his collaboration with Kaufmann and Tézier in Andrea Chènier in 2019.
Ponchielli’s La Gioconda is a rarely performed masterpiece that beautifully weaves themes of power, love, treachery, and vengeance. Audiences will have only two opportunities to witness this grand and passionate opera, performed by some of the world’s finest voices.
The Sydney Opera House Trust supports La Gioconda in Concert as part of the 50th-anniversary program of events. To secure your seats and be part of this unforgettable celebration of music and art, visit the Opera Australia website.
