European Chamber Opera (ECHO) performed to a packed house at Al Qasba, Sharjah on Thursday evening. The much-awaited Grand Opera Gala gave audiences - that included royalty, top dignitaries and connoisseurs - a rare opportunity to enjoy some of the world's most famous operas.
The brilliant artistes that had both veterans and newer talent seduced the select gathering with their sweet, sensual voices and powerful performances. Each act burst with daring vitality that is the hallmark of opera.
Adding to the mood was Al Qasba's romantic setting, resplendent sets, gorgeous costumes and beautiful lighting. Particularly engaging was Mozart's most famous opera Cosi Fan Tutte - making you wish ECHO would perform it all over again. The legendary opera was written and composed by Mozart on the request of Emperor Joseph II.
This was the second time in less than a year that the Grand Opera Gala returned to Al Qasba on popular demand. The outstanding event was supported by Coral Beach Resort, Sharjah alongside Bridgestone and Etisalat who were the official partners.
The exclusive media partners were The National newspaper and City 7 TV (Exclusive Local English Language TV station).
The European Chamber Opera (ECHO) is a leading European opera production company with a huge fan-following worldwide. Marwan J. Al Sarkal, CEO, Al Qasba Development Authority said: 'It was indeed an awesome evening for all opera lovers. Some of the greatest and most memorable operas were performed beautifully by the artists who came all the way from Europe. The feedback from the audiences has been phenomenal and we will be delighted to host such an event again.'
Guests were welcomed at the Masrah Al Qasba Theatre with a beautiful mocktail reception. Nearly all performances were equally special and involving. Included in the highlights of the evening were the world's most loved operas like La Traviata, Don Pasquale, The Pearlfishers, Tosca, Carmen, Madame Butterfly, Don Carlo and Nozze di Figar.
Stefan Paul Sanchez, Artistic Director ECHO said, 'Al Qasba is a unique venue and it's a pleasure to perform here. We have always been received very enthusiastically in Sharjah. It is wonderful to see such an interest in opera and the other arts in the city. The popularity of this event once again reinstates Sharjah's status as the cultural Capital of the Middle East'. Having produced several musical galas in England and Spain, Stefan founded the European Chamber Opera in 1991 with a performance of II Trovatore.
Yet another unique feature of the Grand Opera Gala was the presence of a compere who wove the opera together by interpreting the themes of the melodies to the audiences.
A big attraction for the gathering was a raffle draw for a weekend stay in one of the romantic 'Sea View' rooms at the Coral Beach Resort, Sharjah. The gift voucher will be valid during June 12-13 and the winner will enjoy a cozy and luxurious stay, along with complimentary breakfast and other leisure facilities at the prestigious hotel.
Al Qasba donated 25 per cent of the proceeds from the sale of concert tickets to Sharjah's fund-raising campaign for Palestinian children called "For the Children."
-Ends-
For more information contact:
Hina Bakht
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MPJ (Marketing Pro-Junction)
P.O. Box 66232
Dubai - UAE
Mob: +971 50 6975146
Tel: +971 4 2128305
Fax: +971 4 2277127
h.bakht@mpj-pr.com
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© Press Release 2008
