The Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra (APO) has today announced the debut - and only - New Zealand performance of Anna Netrebko and Yusif Eyvazov. The superstar couple of the international opera world will perform An Evening of Opera Highlights with the orchestra and guest star Elchin Azizov at Auckland’s ASB Theatre (Aotea Centre) on Saturday 21 October.
Netrebko has redefined what it means to be an opera star. Today’s reigning prima donna regularly headlines major productions at leading opera houses across the world and was the first classical musician to be chosen as one of Time Magazine’s “Time 100” list of the world’s most influential people. Earlier this year, she was named the 2017 Best Female Singer at the International Opera Awards in London.
With her distinctive voice, rich tones, abundant charisma and arresting stage presence, she makes an indelible impression in each of her roles. An iconic figure both on and off the stage, the Russian soprano enjoys a level of superstardom that extends far beyond the classical realm.
2016 cemented Netrebko’s standing as the undisputed diva of our time. She received an eleven-minute ovation for her season-opening appearance in the title role of Verdi’s Giovanna d’Arco at La Scala and performed a sold-out solo recital at New York’s Metropolitan Opera, among many other stunning performances.
Joining Netrebko on stage in Auckland will be her husband, celebrated Azerbaijani tenor Yusif Eyvazov. Eyvazov has performed at many world-renowned opera houses, including a recent appearance as Canio in Los Angeles Opera’s production of I Pagliacci, conducted by Plácido Domingo. Also appearing will be award-winning Azerbaijani baritone Elchin Azizov. Azizov is one of the principal soloists at the Bolshoi Theatre in Moscow.
Leading Netrebko, Eyvazov, Azizov and the Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra is renowned conductor Mikhail Tatarnikov. During his illustrious career, the Music Director and Principal Conductor of the Mikhailovsky Theatre, St Petersburg, has conducted some of the world’s most renowned orchestras.
The full Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra will accompany the singers with classics from opera masterpieces by Verdi, Puccini, Giordano and many others, including arias and duets from Il trovatore, Turandot and Andrea Chénier.
APO CEO Barbara Glaser says, “We are delighted that these lauded opera stars are able to add an Auckland stop into their Australasian tour. Netrebko is recognised as the world’s leading soprano and it’s wonderful for the APO to have the opportunity to enable Auckland audiences to experience her artistry. We are looking forward to performing some of the great arias she has made her own.”