"Belcanto" is a tribute to the most popular style of classical Italian opera, drawing on the artistic legacy of Luciano Pavarotti. This spectacular new show takes the audience on a musical journey through time, scenically illustrating this defining era of "beautiful singing" (bel canto). A young ensemble comprising 12 singers, 7 instrumentalists and 7 dancers present the highlights of bel canto. From October 25 to 31, the unique opera revue will make guest appearances in Hamburg, Berlin, Frankfurt, Cologne, Vienna and Munich, produced under the artistic direction of Franco Dragone, who has already re-staged outstanding Cirque du Soleil projects such as O, Alegria andMystèa.
Belcanto, in its various variations, has transcended borders and fascinated people worldwide for centuries. The most successful periods of its history are revived in six sections. The most popular opera arias and selected classical Neapolitan compositions form an impressive round dance, which also includes modern songs arranged and performed according to the tradition and aesthetics of bel canto. The production is particularly distinguished by unique video footage from the private Pavarotti archive.
The bel canto foray begins in the Renaissance through the Baroque, followed by the Italian and European Opera Buffa of the 18th century. Thus the imaginary journey makes a stop in Lorenzo De' Medici's Florence and Claudio Monteverdi's Venice, then leads into the operatic world of Giuseppe Verdi and Giacomo Puccini. Via Naples it finally goes to London.
The focus, of course, is on the singers, who, despite their youth, have mastered all the variations of the demanding vocal style. They were chosen by the Pavarotti Foundation, which looks after his legacy and promotes young talent. Belcanto owes its international triumph to the gifted star tenor Luciano Pavarotti. In his honor, Belcanto is subtitled "The Luciano Pavarotti Heritage."
Luciano Pavarotti has always followed the path blazed for centuries by the world's greatest artists, most notably the unforgettable Enrico Caruso. With his intelligence, artistic sensitivity and great talent, he has shone the brightest light on the treasures of bel canto and has always shown the world the beauty, strength and expressiveness of the human voice that transcends time.
The artistic direction of Belcanto has been entrusted to Franco Dragone, the visionary creator of Cirque du Soleil's first 10 shows and many other magical productions, including the Celine Dion show in Las Vegas. With his shows, Franco Dragone completely redefined a genre by visually telling stories with his ingenious mix of acting, music, dance, choreography and technology. His groundbreaking productions permanently changed live entertainment and show business.
