Spanish tenor, conductor Placido Domingo becomes honorary patron of Krakow Opera

On July 23, Placido Domingo ? one of the best-known lyric tenors of his era and director of the Washington and Los Angeles Operas ? became an honorary patron of the Krakow Opera. “I feel honored and particularly favored,” wrote Placido Domingo in his letter to Opera officials. “I know that Krakow, with its rich history, numerous museums, theaters, galleries and universities, is considered to be the cultural capital of Poland. I will be pleased to have the opportunity to support and co-create the cultural and artistic life of this city.” The honorary patronage of Placido Domingo is above all a great prestige for Krakow Opera and the city’s cultural life. Even more so since music lovers complain about the inadequate level of Krakow Opera’s productions and the artistic quality of performances. Krakow Opera management hopes Domingo will grace the opening of the new Opera edifice in May or June 2008. Officials are also cooperating with Domingo in hope of bringing to Krakow “Luisa Fernanda” ? a famous zarzuela by Federic Moreno Torroba, enormously successful during its recent performances in Europe and America. The tenor’s patronage could lead to holding the World Opera Contest “Operalia” in Krakow, a vocal competition under Domingo’s artistic aegis since its inception in 1993. “Operalia” is among the most important and prestigious competitions for talented young musicians organized in a different city each year. It seems that the Krakow Opera is entering a new era, and not solely because of Domingo’s honorary patronage. The institution is currently waiting for its new seat and for a new artistic director to be selected September in an open election.

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