To mark the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Italy and New Zealand, this Embassy partnered with New Zealand Opera, celebrating its own 25th anniversary.
NZOpera has realised a production of Puccini’s La bohème that features a significant Italian presence: the artistic and technical cast includes director Bruno Ravella, set designer Tiziano Santi and Italian Australian soprano Elena Perroni in the role of Mimì.
To celebrate this collaboration, the Residence held a reception that brought together around 100 guests including Opera executives, donors and representatives of Wellington’s cultural, diplomatic and institutional world. During the evening, Rod Harris, the Director of European Affairs at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs gave a speech remarking on the excellent state of bilateral relations between our countries.
The reception also featured the launch of “Viva Opera! A Journey through Italy” by Patricia Hurley – a richly illustrated cultural itinerary through the iconic places of Italian opera, placing composers and performers in their historical, social and geographical context.
To conclude the evening, soprano Elena Perroni performed an aria from La bohème and two well-known Neapolitan songs.
The event was warmly received and offered a valuable opportunity to enhance the image of Italy as a country of culture, creativity, and enduring artistic excellence.
