The Verdi Gala Concert

This sumptuous event is hosted by Greta Bradman and provides a taste of some of the most renowned and recognisable Verdi operas. The performance features Orchestra Victoria and the luscious voices of Nicole Car (soprano), Paul O’Neill (tenor) and Etienne Dupuis (baritone). The program pays tribute to Verdi and also includes rarely performed pieces.

As Bradman points out, the stories of these operas involve powerful emotions where love, passion and betrayal often intersect with political intrigue. The performance opens with The Force of Destiny with an overture that sets the dramatic and stirring tone for the gala. The performance continues with pieces from Il Trovatore, Simon Boccanegra, Rigoletto and continues with more selections from The Force of Destiny. 

Car is astonishing and captivating. Her voice is sweet yet powerful, exuding a range of palpable emotional states. Dupuis is extraordinary as he conveys conflicting sentiments with a naturalness and ease that is quite disarming. The commanding and forceful nature of their voices is truly impressive. O’Neill adds eloquence and subtlety to his performance.  

The performance continues with pieces from Nabucco, The Masked Ball and concludes with highlights from Don Carlo. The themes of betrayal and vengeance are particularly highlighted in the pieces from The Masked Ball. Among the highlights of the evening is Car’s performance of Morrò, ma prima in grazia. Her incredibly moving portrayal of Amelia’s pleas to see her child for one last time simply takes the audience’s breath away. 

The evening ends on a more festive note and brings all three of the singers together with Bradman to provide a lively and energetic conclusion to the gala. This is a splendid and grand performance that fully indulges the audience and allows them to bask in a wide range of Verdi’s glorious music.

Patricia Di Risio 

Photographer: Jeff Busby