Italian cultural presence grows at Yerevan Opera and Ballet Theatre

Cultural cooperation between Italy and Armenia is expanding through the increasing presence of Italian professionals at the Armenian National Academic Opera and Ballet Theatre in Yerevan. During a recent visit by the Italian Ambassador to Armenia, Alessandro Ferranti, to the theatre, discussions were held with Director Maestro Karen Durgaryan regarding ongoing and future artistic collaborations.

Italian artists are now integrated into the daily operations of the institution. Ballerina Sofia Pagani and oboist Lia Scalas continue their work within the ballet corps and orchestra, respectively, while two new Italian dancers, Vincenzo Petronzi and Priscilla Volpe, have joined the ballet corps this year. Additionally, Vera Van der Heiden, a student of the Global Master in Performing Arts Management from the Accademia Teatro alla Scala, will undertake an internship within the theatre’s International Relations Department.

Building on the success of the production of Ruggero Leoncavallo’s ‘I Pagliacci’ performed last March in collaboration with Teatro alla Scala, the two institutions are planning further projects. This includes upcoming preparations to stage Pietro Mascagni’s ‘Cavalleria rusticana’ next year, continuing the professional exchange between Italian and Armenian cultural sectors.