Puccini’s *Turandot*, conducted by Mazzocchetti, takes the stage in Kuala Lumpur

(ANSA) - ROMA, 17 OTT - The Italian Embassy in Kuala Lumpur, as part of the 2026 World Italian Language Week, is celebrating the centennial of Giacomo Puccini’s *Turandot*, staged by the Kuala Lumpur City Opera under the direction of Maestro Alessandro Mazzocchetti. Scheduled for October 17–25 at the Kuala Lumpur Performing Arts Centre (klpac), the production marks the return to Malaysian stages—after more than twenty years—of one of the most celebrated masterpieces of the Italian operatic repertoire. “This initiative is part of the Embassy’s efforts to promote and spread the Italian language and culture in Malaysia, strengthening the bonds of dialogue between our peoples,” stated the Italian Ambassador, Raffaele Langella. “Opera, one of the most representative expressions of our national artistic heritage, is in fact an extraordinary vehicle for promoting the Italian language, capable of overcoming linguistic and cultural barriers through the universal power of music and theater,” the ambassador added. “Tonight’s great success,” he emphasized, “is due to the strong collaboration between the embassy and the Kuala Lumpur City Opera, as well as Maestro Mazzocchetti’s excellent direction.” His leadership of a production that brings together Malaysian and international artists represents a significant example of cultural diplomacy, fostering dialogue, the exchange of artistic expertise, and the strengthening of bonds of friendship and collaboration between Italy and Malaysia. “We are pleased that the audience response tonight—with over 500 spectators—was very positive, confirming the very strong interest in our cultural heritage,” the ambassador concluded. With an orchestra of 50 musicians, a 70-member choir, and a cast of prominent soloists, the new production promises to capture all the grandeur of Puccini’s final opera. Amelia Tan is directing the production, while the collaboration with the Malaysian fashion house Behati introduces an original visual dimension, blending operatic tradition with contemporary creativity, particularly within the Asian context.
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