The Astra Theatre in Victoria has announced the main cast of its forthcoming production of Giuseppe Verdi’s opera Otello, to be staged on October 24 and 26.
The title role will be played by one of the most sought-after Othellos in the current world of opera, tenor Maizuradze Badri, Miriam Cauchi plays the fragile yet towering Desdemona, while Alessandro Paliaga interprets the scheming yet suave Jago.
The role of the gentle but firm Emilia will be performed by Olga Stemnyova, who impressed the audience when she sang the role of Suzuki in last year’s production of Madama Butterfly.
The powerful yet refined Lodovico will be interpreted by bass Franco de Grandis. Audiences will remember him for his masterful and magnificent portrayal of Banquo, Timur and Sparafucile in Macbeth, Turandot and Rigoletto respectively a few years ago at the Astra.
The role of Cassio has been entrusted to Cliff Zammit Stevens, an up-and-coming young tenor who is creating musical waves both in his native Malta and abroad.
The role of Roderigo will be sung by Bernard Busuttil, while that of Montano will be interpreted by Ken Scicluna.
The opera’s production team is led by Joseph Vella, artistic director of the Astra Theatre and Festival Mediterranea.
It includes Enrico Stinchelli, scenic artist Joseph Cauchi and Donald Micallef as stage manager; Opera Chorus will be coached by Maria Frendo, while the costume department is co-ordinated by Manuel Grima.
The Malta Philharmonic Orchestra, led by Marcelline Agius, will once again be in attendance.
The opera will open this year’s Festival Mediterranea, the annual cultural festival that seeks to expose Gozo’s opera, music, history, archaeology, trades and traditions.
For bookings, contact the festival’s helpdesk on 2155 0985/ 7925 6897 or e-mail bookings@mediterranea.com.mt.
www.mediterranea.com.mt