English
English
Renowned opera singers like Juan Diego Flórez, Piotr Beczała and Nadine Sierra as well as musicians from around the globe gather to showcase their talent at the festival.
Contents
The Verona Arena Opera Festival is a summer celebration of music, culture, and history. It's a lineup of concerts, ballet performances, galas and opera shows held in an ancient amphitheater beneath the starry Italian night sky. This Italian opera tradition offers a wealth of titles, ranging from the grandeur of Aida to the passion of La Boheme. And the best part? You don't need to be an opera expert to be swept away by the beauty of it all! So call your friends, pack a picnic, and get ready for a night of culture and charm in the heart of Italy.
Quick facts about Verona Arena Opera Festival 2024
The 2024 edition of the Verona Arena Festival marks its 101st season, continuing its iconic legacy.
- Dates: 7 June to 7 September
- Number of events: 48
- Event type: Opera, ballet, gala, concert
- Address: P.za Brà, 1, 37121 Verona VR, Italy. Get directions.
- Seating capacity during performances: Ranging from 13,000 to 15,000 based on stage setup
- Timings: Shows typically begin between 9pm and 9:30pm
Why should you attend the Verona Arena Festival?
Watch world-class performances
Verona Arena Festival shows in 2024
La Grande Opera Italiana Patrimonio dell'Umanità
The La Grande Opera Italiana Patrimonio dell'Umanità is the evening gala that opens the Verona Arena opera festival on June 7. Led by one of the most preeminent conductors, maestro Riccardo Muti, it becomes an indispensable experience.
When: June 7 (9:10pm)
Turandot
Turandot is the story of Princess Turandot who issues a deadly challenge: solve three riddles or face death. Based on legends from the East, it is Italian composer Giacomo Puccini's last opera and his most performed work at the Verona Arena.
When: June 8 (9:30pm), June 15 (9:30pm), June 22 (9:30pm), June 29 (9:30pm)
Aida
Following the inauguration of the 100th Verona Arena Opera Festival, the record-breaking production of Aida is set to captivate audiences for an additional ten performances. Aida is a famous tragic opera by Giuseppe Verdi, set in ancient Egypt. Premiered in 1871 at Cairo's Khedivial Opera House, it's now a staple of opera season in the Verona Arena.
When: June 14 (9:30pm), June 20 (9:30pm), June 23 (9:30pm), June 28 (9:30pm), July 7 (9:15pm), July 11 (9:15pm), July 18 (9:15pm), July 21 (9:15pm), July 26 (9:15pm), Aug 1 (9pm), Aug 10 (9pm), Aug 18 (9pm), Aug 22 (9pm), Aug 29 (9pm), Sept 5 (9pm)
Il Barbiere di Siviglia
Experience the lively and quintessential comic opera: Gioachino Rossini's Il Barbiere di Siviglia. Popular costume designer Hugo De Ana's vibrant staging will transport the Arena into an enchanting eighteenth-century garden for seven nights, filled with mazes of hedges, staircases, chairs, and giant red roses, where anything can happen.
When: June 21 (9:30pm), June 27 (9:30pm), July 6 (9:15pm), July 12 (9:15pm), Aug 24 (9pm), Aug 31 (9pm), Sept 6 (9pm)
Carmen
Carmen, the spirited gypsy from French writer Prosper Mérimée's tale, comes alive once more in this historic production. Enhanced by costume designer Anna Anni's garments and El Camborio's choreography, this rendition brings Carmen's story to vibrant life at the arena.
When: July 5 (9:15pm), July 20 (9:15pm), July 25 (9:15pm), Aug 3 (9pm), Aug 8 (9pm), Aug 17 (9pm), Aug 23 (9pm), Sept 7 (9pm)
La Bohème
Experience the timeless La Bohème at the Verona Arena. Set in Paris, the opera follows a group of struggling artists and their loves and losses. Inspired by French writer Henri Murger's novel 'Scènes de la vie de bohème', and last showcased on Verona Arena’s stage in 2011, this production promises to deliver with its stirring music and poignant performance.
When: July 19 (9:15pm), July 27 (9:15pm)
Roberto Bolle and Friends
Renowned ballet dancer Roberto Bolle brings his artistry to the Verona Arena with Roberto Bolle and Friends. Joined by fellow dancers, Bolle presents a showcase of classical and contemporary ballet.
When: July 23 (9:30pm), July 24 (9:30pm)
Tosca
Set in Rome during the Napoleonic Wars, the opera follows the tragic love story of the fiery diva Tosca, her lover Cavaradossi, and the villainous Scarpia. With its dramatic plot and powerful music, this performance is sure to leave a lasting impression.
When: Aug 2 (9pm), Aug 9 (9pm), Aug 16 (9pm), Aug 30 (9pm)
IX Sinfonia
Sinfonia presents Beethoven's 9th Symphony with soprano Erin Morley, contralto Anna Maria Chiuri, tenor Ivan Magrì, and bass Alexander Vinogradov, led by orchestra conductor Andrea Battistoni. Backed by the Fondazione Arena di Verona Orchestra and Choir, the event offers a memorable musical journey. In case of cancellation, it will be held the next day on August 12th, 2024.
When: Aug 11 (9:45pm)
Plácido Domingo Noche Española
Plácido Domingo, one of the greatest opera singers of all time, presents "Noche Española" at the Verona Arena. In this special performance, Domingo showcases the rich and passionate music of Spain, including beloved songs and zarzuelas (a Spanish lyric-dramatic genre), accompanied by the orchestra in a night of unforgettable Spanish melodies.
When: Aug 21 (9pm)
Zorba il Greco
Immerse yourself in this two-act ballet at the Verona Arena. Based on Nikos Kazantzakis' novel, this exhilarating production tells the story of the free-spirited Zorba and his adventures in Crete. With its energetic music and exhilarating choreography, this performance promises to transport audiences to the heart of Greece.
When: Aug 27 (9:15pm), Aug 28 (9:15pm)
Viva Vivaldi, the Four Seasons Immersive Concert
Step into the enchanting world of Antonio Vivaldi's "The Four Seasons" at the Verona Arena. In this immersive concert experience, audiences are treated to Vivaldi's iconic masterpiece performed by a world-class orchestra, surrounded by the stunning architecture of the arena.
When: Aug 28 (9:30pm)
Carmina Burana
This monumental work led by choir conductor Roberto Gabbiani, features a massive chorus and orchestra. It brings to life medieval poems celebrating love, fortune, and the cycle of life.
When: Sept 1 (9:30pm)
The 101st edition of the Verona Arena Festival
The 101st Festival at the Arena is starting off with a bang, featuring Turandot, a tribute to Puccini with beautiful sets and costumes. Also in the lineup are Tosca, starring Anna Netrebko, and the return of La Bohème after fourteen years. Alongside these classics, you can catch recent productions of Il Barbiere di Siviglia, Carmen, and Aida. The local favorite opera, Aida, will be showcased in two different styles, one with modern flair and another re-enacting a classic from 1913. Plus, there will be special evening events including performances by Roberto Bolle and Plácido Domingo, as well as immersive concerts featuring Vivaldi and Orff's Carmina Burana. Shows will start 15 minutes earlier this year, with tickets available from August 28th.
Frequently asked questions about Verona Arena Festival
What is unique about Verona Arena Festival?
The Verona Arena Festival combines incredible opera performances with the ancient charm of a Roman amphitheater. It's like music meets history in the most enchanting way possible! Don't miss this unique blend of culture and entertainment—it's an experience you'll treasure forever.
What are the shows at Verona Arena Festival 2024?
The Verona Arena Festival returns this year with beloved shows such as Turandot, Aida, Carmen, Il Barbiere di Siviglia, La Bohème and a treasure trove of other gems.
Is the festival wheelchair-friendly?
Yes, the festival can be attended by wheelchair users, and offers accessible seating areas and facilities. Accessible entry to the stalls can be found via gates numbered 4, 1, and/or 8, each equipped with two disabled toilets. People with certified disabilities and wheelchair users can grab seats in the 6th sector at the lowest available full price.
What time should I be at the Verona Arena for my show?
Timing is everything! To glide through the gates smoothly and avoid any last-minute rushes, aim to arrive at least an hour before showtime. The gates open two hours prior to the event.
What if I can't make it? Can I ask for a refund?
Unfortunately, once you've booked tickets, they're yours for keeps. There are no refunds, but you can always pass them along or use them for successive dates of the season.
Is there any dress code to keep in mind?
Men must adhere to a dress code when occupying stall seats: long trousers paired with a shirt or polo shirt are the minimum requirement. Please note that certain items are strictly prohibited, including shorts, beach or pool sandals, sports apparel, and beachwear. Let's keep it formal and respectful!
Can bad weather affect the festival?
The Verona Arena might push back the show's start by up to 150 minutes. And if it's already started and gets rained out, unfortunately, there's no refund.
Can children attend the opera festival at Verona Arena?
Absolutely! Children aged 4 and up can enter the Arena. Do make sure you keep them close, as the venue can quickly get crowded.
Can I bring snacks and drinks into the Verona Arena during the festival?
We totally get it—munchies and refreshments are a must for a fantastic show! While outside food and drinks aren't typically allowed, there’s no need to worry. There are usually food and drink spots inside the venue. Just remember, bottles larger than 0.5 liters and any glass/plastic objects are not allowed in the Arena.