Opera’s leading stars are set to sizzle onstage at Opera in the Vineyard 2019, held in the spectacular vineyards of Ballandean Estate on the Granite Belt on Sunday 5 May. Acclaimed mezzo-soprano Milijana Nikolic will be thrilling the audience with her husband, powerful international tenor Rosario La Spina.
Opera attendees can expect an enthralling performance. Serbian-born Milijana is a femme fatale blessed with a voice that oozes elegance and passion. Her most recent performances include the title role in Carmen for Opera Australia; Amneris for Seattle Opera and Opera Australia; and Jane Seymour (Anna Bolena) for The Metropolitan Opera New York.
Australian-born international tenor Rosario La Spina was trained at the young singers’ academy at La Scala, Milan. In 2002, Rosario won first prize in the Mario Del Monaco International Opera Competition and made his principal role debut at La Scala as Riccardo (Oberto) reprising the role in Genoa. Since then, he has taken leading roles in the Italian and French repertoire around the world. His tenor is exquisitely pure and soars over an orchestra with breathtaking clarity. The glittering duo will be joined on stage by pianist providing a luscious accompaniment on grand piano. The program of songs ranges from iconic tenor arias to sparkling melodies from the world of operetta—complemented by musical insights, personal stories, and a few surprises.
Event founder and Ballandean Estate patriarch Angelo Puglisi is looking forward to the 27th iteration of the gala event which has raised more than one million dollars for charity in partnership with Rotary Stanthorpe. Funds raised will be distributed to Rotary charities Ending Trachoma, Hummingbird House in Brisbane and several more. “It’s a great way to be introduced to opera with a celebration of Granite Belt food and wine. This year the theme is Diamonds Are Forever, so bedazzle in black tie!” Puglisi said.
Opera in the Vineyard was born of a friendship between Angelo and his neighbour, the late David Pugh. Listening to opera and watching the sunset over the vineyards with a glass of Angelo’s shiraz was a cherished tradition. The 2019 performance will be created and directed by Opera Queensland.
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