Opera Italiana is in the Air to Perform in Central Park, New York City
“The Serenade at Sunset: Opera for Your Soul” – One of the Most Awaited Outdoor Opera Performances in New York City Returns to Wow both first-time listeners and fans of Opera
New York City’s Central Park is set to host a mesmerizing evening of music as Opera Italiana is in the Air returns to the Naumburg Bandshell on Tuesday, September 24th, 2024, from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. This cultural initiative, led by renowned conductor Alvise Casellati, offers a free outdoor concert to the public, continuing its mission of making opera accessible to all. The event will be hosted by NBC News Entertainment Correspondent Chloe Melas as the Master of Ceremonies, adding an extra touch of elegance and charm to the evening.
Bringing Opera to the Outdoors
Founded in 2017 in Central Park after a conversation between Daniele Bodini, Chairman of the FIAC Foundation, and Alvise Casellati, Opera Italiana is in the Air has quickly grown in popularity. Originally launched in New York, it has since expanded to other cities such as Washington D.C. and Miami, as well as key cultural hubs in Italy like Naples, Milan, and Rome.
Opera Italiana in the Air is committed to making the beauty of opera accessible to everyone by offering free outdoor performances. By removing barriers like expensive tickets or exclusive venues, the organization aims to connect people from different walks of life through the universal language of music.
An Evening of Musical Masterpieces
This year’s program promises an unforgettable evening of opera’s greatest works, starting with Giuseppe Verdi’s “Hymn of the Nations”, a piece that symbolizes unity by blending national anthems from different countries. The idea behind this composition is that music transcends boundaries, connecting people across nations.
The program continues with Mascagni’s Cavalleria Rusticana Intermezzo, followed by arias and duets from Puccini’s Turandot and La Bohème, paying tribute to the composer in commemoration of the 100th anniversary of his passing. The evening will also feature selections from Mozart’s Don Giovanni. Guests are encouraged to stay until the end, as there will be a special surprise performance to conclude the event.
International Stars and Rising Talents
The concert will showcase an extraordinary lineup of talent, featuring Latonia Moore, an internationally acclaimed American soprano who has captivated audiences worldwide. Joining her will be Kang Wang, a rising Chinese-Australian tenor, and George Andguladze, a Georgian-Italian bass, both of whom are considered two of the most sought-after young talents in the world of opera.
In addition to these stars, Opera Italiana in the Air will once again collaborate with Juilliard’s Pre-College program, spotlighting young, emerging talents. This year’s standout is Isaac Thomas, a 12-year-old prodigy composer whose work was chosen through a blind competition for the second time. Maestro Casellati has referred to Thomas as “the Mozart of our times,” and his latest composition, “Echoes of the Land”, will premiere during the event. This opportunity not only showcases the next generation of musical talent but also underscores Opera Italiana’s dedication to nurturing young artists.
Supporting Music Therapy and Healthcare
Opera Italiana in the Air continues to give back to the community through its collaborations with prestigious medical institutions. For this year’s event, they are partnering once again with the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Hospital’s Department of Music Therapy, which uses music as a therapeutic tool to aid patients in their healing journeys. For the first time, the event will also collaborate with New York Presbyterian Hospital/Weill Cornell Medical Center, further emphasizing the power of music to uplift and heal.
Sponsors and Patrons
Opera Italiana is in the Air is made possible by the generous support of several sponsors, including Intesa Sanpaolo, GKSD Investment Holding, Ferrero, The Alexander Bodini Foundation, ENI, Bracco Diagnostics Inc., and Flower & Klein Executive Search. The event is also presented under the patronage of the Consulate General of Italy in New York, the Italian Cultural Institute in New York, the Foundation for Italian Art & Culture, the National Italian American Foundation (NIAF), and RFK Italy.
A Celebration of Culture and Community
As Opera Italiana in the Air prepares for its 2024 performance in Central Park, the event stands as a testament to the power of music to bring people together, transcending cultural and societal differences. Maestro Alvise Casellati’s vision of making opera accessible to all is at the heart of this initiative, ensuring that every person, regardless of their background, can experience the beauty and emotion of opera.
This performance, under the open sky of Central Park, offers an evening of world-class opera, international stars, rising young talents, and the timeless power of music. Whether you’re a long-time opera enthusiast or simply curious about the art form, this event is a unique opportunity to enjoy a night of free, top-tier musical performances in one of New York City’s most iconic locations. Don’t miss this magical evening of Opera Italiana in the Air, celebrating the beauty of Italian opera in the heart of Manhattan.
About Opera Italiana:
Opera Italiana in the Air is a groundbreaking initiative aimed at celebrating the richness and diversity of Italian opera while modernizing its place in today’s cultural landscape. Led by Maestro Alvise Casellati, the program strives to inspire a new generation of opera enthusiasts and redefine the future of classical music. In recognition of its significance, Italian Opera Singing was added to UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list in 2023, ensuring its preservation and continued influence on global culture.