Maria Bieșu International Opera and Ballet Festival opens in Chișinău

The 34th edition of Maria Bieșu International Opera and Ballet Festival has opened in Chișinău. This year, the event brings together artists from 15 countries, while until October 11, audiences will be able to watch 11 performances and concerts on the stage of Maria Bieșu Opera and Ballet Theatre.

The Festival opened on September 6 with the performance of “Lucia di Lammermoor,” a tragic opera in three acts by Gaetano Donizetti and one of the landmark works of the bel canto repertoire.


“It was a great pleasure to take part in the opening of the 34th edition of the Festival,” said Culture Minister Dan Suruceanu. “Behind every opera and ballet performance are years of work and discipline. I would like to thank the artists and the entire theatre team who make this celebration possible. The fact that this event continues to bring entire generations together is the best proof that Maria Bieșu’s legacy lives on,” the minister said.








The performance of “Lucia di Lammermoor,” which opened the Festival, is directed by Paolo Bosisio of Italy, while the set design and costumes were created by Domenico Franchi, also from Italy. The musical direction is provided by conductor Nicolae Dohotaru, the choreography is by Anastasia Homițcaia, and the chorus master is Oleg Constantinov.



Donizetti’s opera, with a libretto by Salvadore Cammarano based on Walter Scott’s drama, follows Lucia’s tragic fate as she is caught between love, family obligations, and rivalries between the two families. The work is particularly known for its famous “mad scene,” one of the most challenging passages in the operatic repertoire.

This year’s program includes operas and ballet performances. Artists from 15 countries will perform on stage alongside the artistic ensembles of Maria Bieșu National Opera and Ballet Theatre.

A new feature of this edition is the inclusion, for the first time, of a ballet performance intended for children. On September 27, families are invited to “Cipollino,” a children’s ballet by Karen Khachaturian.

This year’s edition will conclude on October 11 with the traditional Gala Concert, featuring special guests, opera and ballet soloists, together with the Orchestra, Choir, and Ballet Company of Maria Bieșu Opera and Ballet Theatre.

The Festival is organized by Maria Bieșu Opera and Ballet Theatre, with financial support from the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Moldova.

Photo: Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Moldova