Endsummer Night’s Dream performance marks a decade of Moldova’s ‘Opera at Butuceni’ festival
A major open-air classical music performance is set to take place in Moldova, celebrating a decade of the "Opera at Butuceni" festival.
The event, a performance of "A Midsummer Night's Dream," will be held on August 23rd at the Orheiul Vechi Cultural and Nature Reserve.
Austrian conductor Friedrich Pfeiffer, who has a long-standing connection with the country, will lead the orchestra of the "Maria Bieșu" National Opera and Ballet Theatre. It will be a memorable evening where music and nature are expected to blend in perfect harmony.
Young soloists from the Opera Theatre expressed their emotion during their first rehearsal with Mr Pfeiffer. The conductor, who has a close friendship with co-organiser Anatol Botnaru, said he was drawn back to the location.
"Because Anatol Botnaru and I are good friends, and this place, Butuceni, is fantastic. The opera is presented in such a special location: in this beautiful valley, in a wonderful village and country," Mr Pfeiffer said. "This is the reason I always return to Butuceni, at least once a year, to perform this concert for the people."
The first concert was a stand-alone event in 2015, rather than a festival. "This year will be a beautiful evening with celebrated artists," said Anatol Botnaru, the event's co-organiser. "Mr Pfeiffer is at the helm, with all his energy and passion for Moldova and our culture, to promote us to the world."
Soloist Vladimir Dragoș said he would happily perform under the conductor's baton, adding: "We started ten years ago in Butuceni with the opera Rigoletto, which is why I know him so well; he is an extraordinary musician."
Another soloist, Radu Chiochiu, said it was "a great pleasure to have his support, and for him to share all his knowledge and experience with us."
The organisers hope the event will appeal to classical music lovers and tourists alike, promoting Moldova as an attractive cultural destination.
Elena Stepanov, Executive Director of the National Association for Inbound Tourism of Moldova, highlighted the role of the location and Mr Pfeiffer. She said: "The Orheiul Vechi - Butuceni location has already promoted and organised many cultural events... we are sure that it is not just the location that promotes these events, but also Friedrich Pfeiffer."
The series of events organised at Butuceni will continue until autumn.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
