Celebrating Puccini at Opera in the Quarry
As part of OPERA IN THE QUARRY, West Australian Opera will mark the 100 years since the death of Italian composer Giacomo Puccini. Italian Consul Sergio Federico Nicolaci shares his thoughts on Puccini's importance, and acknowledges West Australian Opera's partnership with the Italian Consulate in Perth.
West Australian Opera and the Italian Consulate in Perth formalised a cultural partnership in 2024. Why is this collaboration so important?
The partnership between West Australian Opera and the Italian Consulate in Perth is essential because it promotes Italian culture through opera, a true invention of Italian musical genius. This collaboration not only fosters knowledge of the quintessential musical language but also encourages artistic and musical exchange between Australia and Italy, promoting interest and passion for Italy. It is a collaboration we are very proud of and deeply value.
When did you fall in love with opera as an art form? Do you remember the first opera you saw or heard?
It was a gradual journey: my entry into the world of opera began with my paternal grandfather, a self-taught tenor with a natural talent, who sang the great arias of the Italian operatic tradition, from Nessun Dorma to Ridi, Pagliaccio. Then there was the voice of Pavarotti, which resonated like a warm embrace whenever I heard it at home or elsewhere. Finally, though much later, during my university years, I was struck by a performance of Don Giovanni at La Scala in Milan. It was impressive.
At OPERA IN THE QUARRY, audiences will hear music from Puccini’s La bohème, Madama Butterfly, Turandot and more. What are you most excited to hear?
Puccini, whose anniversary we celebrate this year, was a genius of opera, and all of his arias are memorable. However, if I must choose, the most exciting for me is Nessun Dorma, as I heard it sung by my grandfather since I was a child. He would want my brother and me to sing it with him, so I know it by heart.
Why do you think Puccini's operas continue to resonate with audiences in Italy, Australia and across the rest of the world?
Puccini’s operas continue to resonate with audiences not only because they tackle universal themes like love, loss, and sacrifice, as critics might say. The plot or lyrics matter to an extent. I believe the secret to Puccini’s success lies in his extraordinarily evocative music: it echoes the passion for which Italy is loved and known worldwide, managing to touch the deepest chords of the human soul. That’s why his arias are universally cherished.
The Quarry Amphitheatre is an iconic West Australian outdoor venue. What are you most looking forward to about spending a night under the stars at OPERA IN THE QUARRY?
I expect an unforgettable experience, immersed in the beauty of music under a starlit sky. The atmosphere of the Quarry Amphitheatre, combined with the power of Puccini’s arias, will make the evening truly magical.
If you could sing an Italian aria, which one would you choose?
If I could sing an Italian aria, I would choose Nessun dorma from Turandot. It is an aria that expresses hope and determination, and it always has a strong impact on the audience, especially the triumphant finale, which embodies the unquenchable optimism of the Italian spirit.
West Australian Opera presents OPERA IN THE QUARRY at the Quarry Amphitheatre on 14, 15, 16 November. Book here.
