About us:
The Italian Opera Project Taormina
A legacy of opera and culture at teatro Nazarena, Taormina
The Italian Opera Live Cultural Association was founded in 2014 with the mission of preserving and sharing Italy’s rich musical and artistic heritage, admired worldwide. Thanks to the extensive experience of its founding members in the artistic, theatrical, and administrative sectors, the association has developed innovative and culturally significant projects.
A special focus has been placed on regional folklore music and Italian opera, making Teatro Nazarena in Taormina a reference point for opera lovers. Over the years, collaborations with international organizations have expanded, welcoming artists from Spain, France, Germany, Israel, Switzerland, and Cyprus, fostering an exchange of artistic excellence.
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A stage for emerging opera talents
One of the core missions of Italian Opera Project Taormina is to support young Sicilian opera singers, providing them with a prestigious stage for their artistic growth. The association has proudly contributed to the success of many artists, including:
- Elisabetta Zizzo – Performed at Puccini Festival (Torre del Lago) and Arena di Verona
- Valentino Buzza – Debuted as Nemorino at Maggio Fiorentino Theater (Florence)
- Maria Bagalà – Winner of Maria Caniglia International Competition 2016
- Chiara Notarnicola – Winner of the Bologna Opera School, performed at Teatro Comunale di Bologna
- Ester Ventura – Performed for the Prince of Monaco
- Angelo Villari – Featured in various roles at Teatro dell’Opera di Roma, Teatro Comunale di Cagliari, and Teatro Maggio Fiorentino
Between 2014 and 2019, the association has organized 607 opera events, attracting over 60,000 spectators.
Italian Opera Taormina – A Unique musical experience
In 2020, the association launched the eighth edition of the Italian Opera Taormina Music Festival, a highly successful format registered with SIAE. This event, held at Teatro Nazarena Taormina, takes audiences on a timeless journey through Italian opera, featuring legendary composers such as Mozart, Verdi, Puccini, Donizetti, and Rossini.
The performances, enriched by national and international opera stars, are accompanied by virtuoso pianists, offering an unforgettable experience for both newcomers and seasoned opera lovers.
Taormina International Music Festival & Special Performances
In 2016, the Taormina International Music Festival was launched, with renowned soprano Katia Ricciarelli as the guest of honor. Throughout the years, numerous prestigious performances have taken place, including:
- “Nessun Dorma” featuring Katia Ricciarelli
- “Le Donne di Puccini” with Silvia Di Falco, Elisabetta Zizzo, Diana Nocchiero
- “Musiche da Film” with M° Palmiro Simonini & Stefano Maffizzoni
- “Amanecer En Granada” with Jose & Francisco Cuenca (Spain)
- “Trio Mediterraneo” with Carlos Emilio Lopez, Beatriz Balboa Ruiz
Other notable productions include “Gran Galà dell’Opera”, “Napoli – Venezia”, and “Romanticismo in Musica”, featuring internationally acclaimed artists.
Major opera events at Teatro Nazarena Taormina
Italian Opera Project Taormina has also produced and hosted exclusive concerts at some of the most prestigious theaters, including:
- New Year’s Concert 2017 – Teatro Vittoria Colonna (Vittoria, RG)
- Christmas Concert 2017 – Teatro Trifiletti (Milazzo, ME)
- Gran Galà Lirico – Teatro Don Bosco (Barcellona Pozzo di Gotto, ME)
- “Homage to Verdi” & “The Three Tenors” – Special Italian Opera Taormina concerts
Additionally, “Sicily Revisited” showcased Sicilian jazz artist Laura Campisi, blending Sicilian folk music and American jazz.
Silvia Di Falco and the artistic direction of Italian Opera Project
One of the most distinguished figures in the association is soprano Silvia Di Falco, an internationally recognized artist and the Artistic Director of Italian Opera Project Taormina. She has performed in prestigious venues, contributing to the promotion of Italian opera in Taormina and beyond.
In 2015, the association released the live album “Italian Opera – Live in Taormina”, featuring Silvia Di Falco, recorded during an unforgettable concert in Teatro Nazarena.
Spreading opera to future generations
Italian Opera Project Taormina is committed to introducing young audiences to the beauty of Italian opera. Every year, exclusive performances are tailored for children and teenagers, helping them discover the magic and tradition of opera.
Furthermore, the association organizes “Music Donors” concerts, bringing the joy of music to hospitals across Sicily, using art as a tool for emotional healing and connection.
Why choose italian opera project Taormina?
✅ An immersive journey into Italian opera at the heart of Teatro Nazarena Taormina
✅ A prestigious platform for emerging and established opera singers
✅ A rich repertoire spanning from Verdi and Puccini to jazz and folk fusion
✅ A growing international reputation, with collaborations worldwide
✅ A unique blend of tradition and innovation, making opera accessible to everyone
Experience the best of Italian opera in Taormina – Book your tickets now!
