Some voices have to be seen — and heard — to be believed. Case in point: Irina Mishura. The mezzo-soprano has graced the the world’s most celebrated stages. Her life story could be the subject of an opera. And you can be there when she stars in OperaFest!
Celebrating the passion and excitement of opera, OperaFest! takes place Friday, March 23 at 7 p.m. at the Seligman Performing Arts Center. Under the baton of Suzanne Mallare Acton, OperaFest! is a new collaboration of Rackham Symphony Choir and Verdi Opera Theatre of Michigan, in cooperation with Detroit Country Day Conservatory Program.
The OperaFest! program includes opera’s greatest hits. Selections include pieces from the most popular operas including the Marriage of Figaro, Carmen, and Barber of Seville as well as selections from composers Verdi, Wagner and Puccini. The evening features a 140-voice choir and orchestra, joined by the internationally acclaimed soprano to celebrate the passion and excitement of opera.
Born in Krasnodar, Russia, Ms. Mishura emigrated to the West as an established operatic star in the former Soviet Union. She since has performed at the Royal Opera House-Covent Garden (London) and La Scala, the Met — and now — Seligman! Her roles include Norma, Carmen, and Samson and Delilah. She also performed in MOT’s concert version of Aida with Luciano Pavarotti. The Detroit News called her performance “the performance that likely will endure as the most memorable of the night.” Watch her Carmen here.
Tickets are $30 in advance at $35 at the door. There is special student pricing with tickets for $10.