KUALA LUMPUR: As part of the celebrations for the 2026 Week of the Italian Language in the World, Kuala Lumpur City Opera (KLCO) presents Giacomo Puccini's Turandot, conducted by acclaimed Italian maestro Alessandro Mazzocchetti.
Supported by the Embassy of Italy in Kuala Lumpur, the production runs from Oct 17 to 25 at the Kuala Lumpur Performing Arts Centre (klpac).
This staging marks the return of one of Italian opera's greatest masterpieces to the Malaysian stage after more than two decades.
In a recent statement, Italian Ambassador to Malaysia Raffaele Langella said: "This initiative forms part of the Embassy's ongoing efforts to promote the Italian language, its use and dissemination, and Italian culture in Malaysia."
"Opera, one of the most representative expressions of Italy's artistic heritage, offers an exceptional means of promoting the Italian language, transcending linguistic and cultural boundaries through the universal power of music and theatre."
The Ambassador further emphasised that Mazzocchetti's participation at the helm of a production bringing together Malaysian and international artists was also a significant example of cultural diplomacy, fostering dialogue, the exchange of artistic expertise, and the strengthening of the bonds of friendship and cooperation between Italy and Malaysia.
"The Embassy is particularly pleased to have worked alongside KL City Opera to make this important cultural initiative possible," he added.
Featuring a 50-piece orchestra, a 70-member chorus, and a distinguished cast of principal singers, this new production promises to capture the full grandeur of Puccini's final opera.
Directed by Amelia Tan, the staging also features a creative collaboration with Malaysian fashion house Behati, bringing a contemporary visual style to the timeless story.
Performed in Italian with English and Chinese surtitles, Turandot offers both seasoned opera lovers and first-time audiences a chance to discover the richness of Italy's musical and linguistic heritage.
For more information and tickets, visit www.klcityopera.com.
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