The Festival of Opera and Ballet Art opened

The 53rd edition of the Festival of Opera and Ballet Art opened on November 23 with the premiere of "Eugene Onegin" in the Opera in the city of Stara Zagora (Southern Bulgaria).

The masterpiece by Pushkin and Tchaikovsky finds a new, beautiful interpretation in the work of director Slavcho Nikolov and gives a chance to talented young singers to make their debut in the romantic characters of Onegin and Tatiana.

Elegant beauty captivates the audience from the stage as soon as the curtain opens. The aesthetic concept of the show is very compelling and at the same time very intimate, as is Pushkin's drama set to Tchaikovsky's brilliant music.

The roles of Tatiana and Onegin cannot help but be a dream for any singer who has the chance to experience them, because they are emotionally moving and very human.

"There's no other opera like this, you won't find feelings like these. It's all so real and our cast tries to convey the emotions, the love. I think that's the only reason this world exists, we make an effort for love, we breathe for love. So I guess people should come to see an unfortunately unhappy love, but with true feelings and with great commitment," said Besa Lugichi.

The central part is a debut for the talented baritone Yosif Slavov. His task is very complex both vocally and acting-wise. He finds pleasure in the gigantic stage transformation his character undergoes.

"I have to be this loving, even begging for love young man who understands his mistake and wants to apologise in every possible way for it. To me, the ending is just phenomenal. The finale is so beautiful, so moving, it's most enjoyable to sing," added Yosif Slavov.

The performance will not leave the audience indifferent also because of the wonderful large choral scenes and the brilliant presence of the ballet troupe of the Stara Zagora Opera.