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Last Monday Astra Theatre piloted an initiative aimed at reaching out to students and the public ahead of its forthcoming production of Verdi’s Nabucco.
In collaboration with the Manoel Theatre and Bank of Valletta, ‘Behind the Opera Curtain’ was held at the Manoel’s Studio Theatre.

Conductor Joseph Vella, Astra’s musical director who will also be directing the Malta Philharmonic Orchestra in next week’s performances of Nabucco the Astra, led the proceedings by speaking about the musical importance of Verdi’s opera, which, as Vella stressed, put Verdi on the world map as a composer of note. Without being too technical he peppered his exposition with enough detail to enthuse a delighted audience.

Vella highlighted the major arias and ensembles, speaking about Verdi’s mastery for melody and contrapuntal structures. Stage director Enrico Stinchelli dwelt on aspects of production and technicalities that go with mounting such a massive project. He stressed the importance of adhering to the libretto, making special mention on achieving an equilibrium between tradition and innovation – something that is so difficult to accomplish but one that makes or breaks a production.

The audience were privileged to be regaled by live musical interludes from the main soloists. Maltese tenor Cliff Zammit Stevens, who will be making his Malta debut in an operatic lead role, teamed up with mezzo-soprano Olga Slepnyova. They sang a duet in their respective roles of Ismaele and Fenena. Bass Carlo Colombara, of Metropolitan Opera fame, interpreted the wonderful Preghiera of Zaccaria while Piero Terranova, who will be singing the main role of Nabucco, sang one of the leading arias. It was just an exquisite taste of finer things to come.

Nabucco is being staged at the Astra Theatre on Thursday and Saturday, October 25. Tickets may be obtained by phone on 2155 0985 or 7925 6897 or by e-mail: bookings@mediterranea.com.mt.