KUCHING: Sarawak is poised to come alive with the enchanting melodies of opera as the inaugural Borneo Opera Festival (BOF) takes centre stage from Oct 12 to 15 at the Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUN).
The event, the first of its kind in the region, promises to bring the magic of opera directly to the heart of Borneo.
Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah expressed his excitement for the festival, highlighting that 38 musicians and performers have journeyed from Europe.
“This is something new that we’re introducing to the region. I’m confident that opera enthusiasts will be thrilled to witness a live performance, something that has typically been seen on screens through movies and videos.
“It’s an opportunity to experience the vibrant energy of opera directly,” he said during a press conference here on yesterday (Oct 5).
As such, event organiser, Pauline Peck of Borneo Season Opera II Palcoscenico PLT, has shared an ambitious vision for the Borneo Opera Festival.
Through the BOF, she said their mission is to establish Sarawak as the premier hub for classical music in Asia and on the global stage.
“We are committed to raising the profile of opera, instrumental music, orchestras, and choirs in this region, thus thrusting Sarawak into the international spotlight.
“Borneo Season Opera II Palcoscenico PLT is wholeheartedly dedicated to providing an unforgettable experience for all audience members with the aim of inspiring a new generation of vocalists and music enthusiasts,” she said.
Abdul Karim emphasised the importance of kindling interest in various forms of music throughout Sarawak and saw this event as a part of the ministry’s duty to foster the local entertainment scene.
“Our aim is to create interest not only in opera but in all forms of music.
“It is the responsibility of the ministry and related agencies to nurture the entertainment industry across Sarawak.
“By generating interest, we hope to pave the way for more such events in the future.
“While we don’t anticipate hosting this opera festival annually, we will gauge public reception first. If the enthusiasm grows, it’s something we may consider for the future,” he added.
BOF promises to showcase world-class opera talents, including renowned artists such as Maestro Alfio Grasso from Italy, Ioan Vrasmas (Romania), Abdallah Saad (Egypt), and the Spanish duo Beatriz Sylvan and Bogdan Alexandru Costache.
Additionally, Sarawak’s very own opera singer, soprano Jeanne-Marie Druce, who has honed her opera skills in Australia and Europe for seven years, will be a part of this spectacular event.
Other world-renowned performers include Italian conductor Silvano Frontalini, Italian tenor Domenico Menini and Hungarian pianist Gabriella Gyoker.
As such, Abdul Karim and Pauline invite festival goers to indulge in the grandeur and beauty of opera as the Teatro d’Opera Italiana (Vox Orchestra) takes centre stage.
