Muscat: January at the Royal Opera House Muscat showcased the brilliance of classical opera, captivating audiences with a weekend dedicated to operatic excellence.
Verdi’s Simon Boccanegra drew attendees into a gripping narrative that explored deep inner turmoil and the potential for redemption and compassion.
This production was delivered by the esteemed Mariinsky Theatre on January 23 and 25, alongside a concert featuring opera soloists in Opera Masterpieces on January 24.
The audience enjoyed an extraordinary three nights filled with breathtaking musical performances. Since its debut in 1857, Simon Boccanegra by Giuseppe Verdi has been celebrated as one of the great classical operas.
Giuseppe Verdi (1813–1901), whose illustrious career spanned sixty years, composed Simon Boccanegra at the height of his artistic journey, setting new standards for operatic expression.
The Opera Masterpieces concert on January 24 featured the talented singers, choir, and orchestra of the Mariinsky Theatre, presenting a selection of exquisite arias and symphonic pieces from operas and ballets by renowned Russian and European composers, including beloved works by Glinka, Tchaikovsky, Borodin, Rossini, Verdi, Puccini, Mozart, and Wagner.
The performance included young opera soloists from the Mariinsky Theatre, who are graduates of the Atkins Young Artists Programme and the La Scala Opera Academy.
Reflecting on the operatic achievements of the weekend, Umberto Fanni, Director General and Artistic Director of ROHM, remarked, “It is a privilege to host a weekend filled with masterpieces like Verdi’s Simon Boccanegra, beautifully interpreted by the Mariinsky Theatre, a historic institution in the world of opera. This will undoubtedly be one of the standout moments of our season.”
As February approaches, audiences can anticipate another month rich with exceptional performances and educational programs, beginning with the ballet A Thousand and One Nights on February 6 and 7, one of the few ballet presentations this season.
A Pipe Organ Concert featuring the remarkable artist Claudio Astronio, who is renowned as a harpsichordist, organist, and conductor, will take place on February 13 at ROHM, showcasing magnificent melodies.
Additionally, February will celebrate one of the Arab world's most legendary composers and singers, Mohammed Abdul Wahab. Attendees can look forward to a week filled with educational programs that explore the enduring music of Abdul Wahab, culminating in two tribute concerts on February 15 and 20, where his works will be remastered.
For further details and ticket purchases, please visit the Royal Opera House Muscat website at rohmuscat.org.om or reach out to the Box Office.
