Francesco Demuro headlines Sardinia's Festival delle Città Regie

The Festival delle Città Regie opened in Alghero, Sardinia, featuring a program that blends opera with traditional Sardinian music. Tenor Francesco Demuro, one of Italy's most acclaimed singers, performed a repertoire that included arias from Bizet, Puccini and French opera, accompanied by the Festival's orchestra under Alessandro Palumbo.

The event also showcased regional folk groups, with the Tenores di Oniferi delivering traditional polyphonic chants and Dante Tangianu presenting the island's ancient uneddas instrument. Guest baritone Alberto Gazale performed duets with Demuro, including “Au fond du temple saint.” The festival will continue with performances in Castelsardo the following evening and conclude on 30 July at Sassari's Teatro Comunale.

Organised by the Ente de Carolis, the multi‑day celebration highlights Sardinia's rich musical heritage and its connections to the broader operatic tradition.