Celebrating Lorenzo Da Ponte in his birthplace, Vittorio Veneto, is for me not only a dutiful homage to one of the greatest geniuses of theatrical literature, but an artistic mission that looks to the future.
Since the Festivalโs foundation in 2024, my desire has been to create a living cultural bridge between Italy and the United Kingdom, uniting the glorious tradition of Italian bel canto with the dynamism of international productions. With the 2026 edition, we reach a fundamental milestone: the completion of the Mozart-Da Ponte trilogy with The Marriage of Figaro.
As a singer and teacher, I firmly believe that opera should not be a museum, but a vibrant experience. For this reason, our Festival is built upon a precious balance: on one hand, the excellence of a professional production featuring established artists and the mastery of the Venice Chamber Orchestra; on the other, the energy of the young talents from our Academy. Intergenerational exchange and mentorship are the pillars upon which we build every single note.
Yet, our greatest challenge takes place off the stage, in the classroom. Bringing opera to the new generations is not a side activity; it is the very heart of our project. Seeing the enthusiasm and wonder in the eyes of hundreds of students discovering the power of musical theatre for the first time is what gives meaning to our work.
I invite you to share this vision with us, supporting a Festival that believes in talent, invests in training, and celebrates the timeless beauty of a heritage that belongs to us all.
Andrew Foan Artistic Director, Da Ponte Opera Festival