A Distinctive Opera Gala at the Seoul Arts Center

At the Opera Theater on August 23 and 24

The Seoul Arts Center (SAC) will present the "2025 SAC Opera Gala" at the Opera Theater on August 23 and 24, 2025.

The SAC Opera Gala offers a stage of a different caliber compared to typical opera galas. While most opera galas feature the orchestra performing on stage, at the SAC Opera Gala, the orchestra is placed in the pit, just as in a full-length opera performance. The stage and lighting are designed as they would be for a complete opera, and the vocalists perform in full makeup and costumes, just as they would in a full production. In contrast, singers at most opera galas usually perform in formal attire such as suits and gowns.

The SAC Opera Gala thus presents a performance that follows the narrative of the opera, complete with stage design, lighting, costumes, and makeup. This clearly distinguishes it from other opera galas, where singers typically perform a series of major arias from various operas, regardless of the original storyline.

This year, the program will feature Puccini's "La Boh?me" and "Tosca," each presented by act, and Verdi's "La Traviata," focusing on its highlight scenes.

Three world-renowned sopranos, representing Korea, will each take on the leading female roles in these works.

The role of Mimi in "La Boh?me" will be performed by soprano Hong Juyeong, known for her pure and clear tone. The role of Tosca in "Tosca" will be sung by dramatic soprano Seo Seonyeong, famous for her captivating portrayal of Tosca. The role of Violetta in "La Traviata" will be performed by soprano Son Jihye, who is currently a resident artist at the Dortmund Theater in Germany and is recognized for her elegant voice.

Sopranos Hong Juyeong, Seo Seonyeong, Son Jihye (from left)
Photo by Seoul Arts Center, (c) Taeuk Kang, (c) Hong Jupyo

The male leads joining them are equally impressive. The role of Rodolfo in "La Boh?me" will be performed by tenor Kim Sungho, winner of the song category at the BBC Cardiff International Competition. The role of Cavaradossi in "Tosca" will be sung by tenor Lee Beomju, a prizewinner at the Verdi International Competition. The role of Alfredo in "La Traviata" will be performed by tenor Park Seungju, who won the Montreal International Competition in Canada and made his debut at the Metropolitan Opera.

Other notable cast members include baritone Kang Hyeonggyu, who is active mainly in Europe and received acclaim for his performance at the Chung Myungwhun & La Fenice Orchestra concert opera "La Traviata" last year; baritone Yoon Kihun, who has caught the attention of world-renowned tenor Pl?cido Domingo; baritone Noh Dongyong, winner of the New Artist Award at the 3rd Korea Opera Awards; baritone Park Eunwon, who debuted as a lead at the National Theater Mannheim in Germany; tenor Kim Jaeil, who is actively performing both domestically and internationally; and basses Kim Cheoljune, Lee Junseok, and Park Euihyeon.

The performance will be conducted by Hong Seokwon, a conductor highly respected in the Korean opera scene for his delicate interpretations and balanced musicality. Direction will be by Eom Sukjeong, praised for her sensuous and dramatic staging. The Noi Opera Chorus and the National Symphony Orchestra will also participate.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.