Spazju Kreattiv Cinema will be screening the historic performance by Maria Callas in Paris, 1958 during December. In two special screenings, this once in a lifetime event has been fully restored for the first time in colour exclusively for the big screen. Maltese opera enthusiasts should not miss this opportunity to relive this moment in film.
In the annals of opera history, 19 December 1958, marked an unforgettable night as Maria Callas, the quintessential diva of the 20th century, made her Paris debut at the opulent Paris Opéra. This exclusive performance, a one-night-only affair, was attended by the crème de la crème of Parisian society, including notable figures such as French President Coty, Jean Cocteau, the Duke & Duchess of Windsor, Charlie Chaplin, and Brigitte Bardot.
"There is no better way to celebrate Maria Callas' 100-year anniversary than on the big screen. This will be the first time audiences around the world will be able to experience Callas in colour and in Dolby Atmos in cinemas, performing one of her most iconic and acclaimed recitals." CEO of Piece of Magic Entertainment, Caspar Nadaud, continues, "I'm proud that Piece of Magic is partnering with Tom Volf and Samuel François-Steininger on this project and that we will offer, together with our exhibition partners, CALLAS - PARIS, 1958 to cinema audiences around the world."
Callas, the face of opera, graced the renowned stage in a spectacle of elegance, adorned in her most exquisite couture and a million dollars' worth of jewellery. The evening commenced with her signature role, Norma's "Casta diva," followed by the haunting "Miserere" scene from Verdi's Il Trovatore. She then added a mischievous touch with "Una voce poco fa" from Il Barbiere di Siviglia, lightening the mood. The pinnacle of the night unfolded in the second half with a fully staged performance of Tosca, Act II.
Tom Volf, the Director and Producer of CALLAS - PARIS 1958 comments on his discovery, "In 2021, in a basement in Athens, I made an incredible discovery - the original 16mm film reels of a historical performance; Maria Callas' Paris debut." He continues to outline that this is the first time ever audiences will have the opportunity to witness this night, but also the experience of visiting a remarkable night in an Opera House in 1958 and spending the night with the greatest opera singer of all time.
This performance showcased Callas at the zenith of her artistry, both as a recitalist and a formidable operatic actress. Beyond her vocal prowess, the visual elements were equally pivotal in conveying the depth of her artistic expression. "I have been working on the restoration and colorisation of film for over fifteen years and brought all that experience to this project. We have worked tirelessly to create a perfect rendition that allows audiences to fully immerse themselves in the unique and special talent that is Maria Callas." writes Samuel Francois-Steininger, Producer of CALLAS - PARIS, 1958.
This event offers an unprecedented opportunity to relive the magic of Maria Callas' Paris debut. Produced by the team acclaimed for the award-winning film Maria by Callas, this release promises to transport audiences to a night of unparalleled elegance and operatic brilliance, capturing the essence of a diva who left an indelible mark on the world of opera.
For more information visit www.kreattivita.org