September always marks the final countdown for opera in Gozo, particularly for the Aurora Opera House, which is the first theatre to present its opera. This year, the curtain will rise on Il Trovatore, another Verdi-favourite, on 11 October.

A few days ago, the Aurora theatre announced the main members of the cast – four big names that bring with them to the Aurora, the star quality of the world’s greatest opera stages such as those of New York, Milan, Vienna and London. Two of these, Marzio Giossi and Michele Crider have already impressed in previous appearances at the Aurora. The other two members, Stuart Neill and Mzia Nioradze are, on the other hand, raising a lot of expectations.

A quick look at the theatre’s online ticket-purchasing system clearly illustrates that this year’s production will be highly followed. Opera at the Aurora is in high demand due to a number of factors. The two new faces are drawing crowds on their own merits. Crider, with her wide fan base, is also drawing a number of foreign opera connoisseurs who, largely, follow her wherever she performs.

Other than the principal quartet of soloists, the cast includes Emanuele Cordaro as Ferrando, May Caruana as Ines, Bernard Busuttil as Ruiz, Carlo Palazzo as the old gypsy and Riccardo Palazzo as the messenger.

As we usher in September, the 10% seat sale on opera tickets for Il Trovatore comes to an end. Therefore, the few remaining tickets are on sale at their original prices. Only a handful of €80 and €70 tickets remain. Other available tickets are priced at €60 and €45. 

Tickets may be purchased online via www.teatruaurora.com or from the Aurora Box Office, which may be contacted on 2155 9452; email [email protected]