On June 14, 2015 German tenor Jonas Kaufmann walked onto the stage of La Scala, Milan, the home of Italian opera, for one of the most highly anticipated performances of the year.
The concert, featuring the music of famed composer Giacomo Puccini, made national news in Italy and following five encores and 40 minutes of applause, audiences were still left wanting more.
Shuswap residents will have the opportunity to enjoy the La Scala experience on the big screen in Jonas Kaufmann: An Evening With Puccini this Saturday, March 19 at 1 p.m. at the Salmar Classic Theatre.
“We are indeed fortunate that this legendary performance will be shown in Salmon Arm in a new film directed by Brian Large and produced by Arts Alliance,” says opera enthusiast Gabriele Klein.
“Cinema audiences worldwide will experience the unforgettable event, and be treated to a revealing introduction to Puccini – the man, the musician, the superstar – narrated by Jonas and featuring rare archival footage.”
Puccini’s operas include some of the most well-known melodies in classical music. One such melody is the iconic aria from Turandot – Nessun Dorma. This aria holds a special place in Jonas’ heart.
“Kaufmann’s voice is celebrated for its expressive power, flawless technique and versatility,” says Klein. “He has the rare gift of completely immersing himself in each and every role he sings with the result – some of the most thrilling and electrifying opera performances ever seen.”
Brian Large, one of the most celebrated directors of music films says Kaufmann “uses his voice as a painter would a palette of vocal colours, painting with sound and pure emotion…”
“I love opera, it’s all the arts together – music, voice, staging, history, costumes,” says Klein, noting Kaufmann will be singing several famous opera arias interspersed with Puccini.
“There’s a German word ‘gesamtkunstwerk’ that means total work of art. These were the hits of the day, people hummed them.”
Tickets for Saturday’s film are available at the door.
