If you haven’t yet had the pleasure of hearing about the grand “Opera in Paradise,” then consider this your golden ticket! Imagine an entire weekend where the soaring melodies of world-class opera meet the gentle sounds of the rainforest and the subtle lull of the sea. Sounds like a dream, doesn’t it? A beautiful, musical, and natural dream. Now, take this dream and turn it into reality – because the “Opera in Paradise” returns for its third magnificent edition in 2025, after first gracing the world with its presence back in 2023.
This exquisite musical event takes place at the breathtaking Pangkor Laut Resort, a private island haven just off the coast of Perak. Did you know? The inspiration behind this unique event dates back to 1994. During a visit that was definitely to remember – the late, great Luciano Pavarotti himself (an icon of Italian opera) graced the shores of Pangkor Laut Resort, famously declaring the island “paradise on earth.” Since then, the resort has blossomed into a cherished destination for opera lovers, a place where the spirit of that grand master continues to resonate.
The setting prepared for the performances is nothing short of spectacular as well! Picture the scene: an open-air amphitheatre, tucked away right in the heart of the island’s lush rainforest. Here, the powerful, dramatic voices of the opera singers don’t just stand alone; they intertwine with the natural symphony all around them – providing a unique experience that one can’t simply get from an opera house. Imagine the rustling leaves of the rainforest, the chirping of unseen creatures, and the gentle, rhythmic lapping of the waves against the shore, all blending with every note. It’s an event that expertly combines the refined elegance of world-class opera with the wild, untamed beauty of nature, creating something truly special, like a perfectly balanced and harmonious duet. All things considered, it’s more than just a show; it’s an immersion.
Get ready to mark your calendars because the 2025 edition, running from 10-12 October, promises a truly unforgettable weekend! And now you may be wondering, who’ll be gracing the stage at this year’s “Opera in Paradise”? Well, the lineup is every bit as thrilling as you’d imagine. Prepare to be utterly captivated by a dazzling array of award-winning opera performers!
Andrea Griminelli, the revered Italian flautist and recipient of numerous accolades including a Grammy, brings over 35 years of distinguished performance to the stage. Having performed alongside Pavarotti at Madison Square Garden at just 25, he now serves as the Musical Director for this special tribute to Pavarotti’s island performance.
This event also features Laura Wright, a celebrated mezzo-soprano whose career highlights include singing for Queen Elizabeth II and composing “Invictus” for the Invictus Games. A BBC Chorister of the Year winner, she’s released six albums, performed in iconic venues worldwide, and passionately advocates for various organisations.
The sensational soprano Clarissa Spata will captivate the audience with her award-winning versatility, having performed principal roles with Opera Australia in productions like Carmen and The Magic Flute. Her extensive career includes international tours, major awards, and appearances on The Voice Australia, as well as regular performances with The Australian Tenors and The Italian Tenors.
Rounding out this stellar cast is the masterful Sydney-born tenor Gaetano Bonfante. With a career spanning 15 productions for Opera Australia and an international tour as Alfredo in La Traviata, Gaetano’s rich voice and captivating storytelling have charmed audiences globally, from being a finalist on Operatunity Oz to performing in Venice and on cruise ships.
Their incredible voices, much like delicate brushstrokes, are set to paint a living masterpiece against the breathtaking canvas of this island paradise. And this Opera in Paradise event is surely something you wouldn’t wanna miss.
In conjunction with this spectacular event, Pangkor Laut Resort is offering an exclusive “Opera in Paradise” weekend package. This luxurious 3-day, 2-night escape, priced from MYR6500++, ensures guests to savour every moment of this world-class experience.
What does this enticing Opera in Paradise package include, you ask? Beyond the sheer joy of immersing yourself in world-class opera, guests will indulge in exquisite gastronomy throughout their stay. The designated weekend, 10-12 October, is brimming with delights. On 11 October, the resort will prepare delightful pre-concert cocktails, setting the perfect mood before the main event. The concert itself is then followed by a magnificent Gala Dinner, a fitting end to an evening of musical brilliance. And of course, the guests’ comfort is paramount, with daily breakfast, lunch, and dinner for two adults at selected restaurants included. To top it all off, they even provide return scheduled speedboat transfers to and from Marina Island Pangkor, which would make the guests’ journeys that much more smoother.
Book the Opera in Paradise Weekend package here.
