On December 11, opera professionals from South Korea and Italy convened to discuss sustainable collaborations and cultural exchanges between the two nations. The forum, which brought together experts and influential figures from both countries, aimed to establish a framework for deepening their mutual engagement in opera.

The initiative stemmed from a request made in October by Cecilia Gasdia, General Manager of the Arena di Verona. Gasdia expressed a keen interest in Korean opera and emphasized the need for concrete discussions to formalize bilateral cooperation. This led to a collaborative effort by Korean and Italian institutions to explore practical avenues for partnership.

The forum was attended by some of Italy’s most prominent opera figures, including Claudio Orazi, Director of the Teatro Carlo Felice in Genoa; Francesco Ommasini, Artistic Administrator of the Arena di Verona; and Maria Rita Romanoli, Administrative Manager of the Teatro Comunale di Bologna. Additionally, the event featured Demetrio Corazzi, Professor of Vocal Arts at the Giuseppe Verdi Conservatory in Milan, and Günther Oberhauser, representative of the renowned management agency ALIOPERA.

From the Korean side, participants included Jung Kap Gyun, Director of the Daegu Opera House, and Seo Hye Yeon, Head of the Seoul National University Opera Center. They proposed collaboration strategies between Korean opera houses and academic institutions. The Seoul National University Opera Center outlined plans to expand educational and exchange opportunities for Korean talents in collaboration with Italy’s prestigious La Scala Theater.

Key discussions during the forum included a proposal for a 2025 joint performance featuring emerging opera artists from both countries, setting the stage for robust talent and knowledge exchange. La Scala Academy Director Luisa Vinci expressed interest in hosting specialized masterclasses in singing, stagecraft, and directing for Korean students. Vinci also indicated her willingness to secure dedicated spots for Korean applicants at the La Scala Academy.

This groundbreaking forum highlighted the shared commitment of South Korea and Italy to fostering innovation and excellence in opera. By pooling their resources and expertise, the two nations aim to establish a sustainable model for cultural exchange that benefits both their operatic traditions and emerging talent pools.

The event underscored South Korea’s growing influence in the global opera scene and Italy’s willingness to collaborate with international partners. As plans for joint performances, specialized training, and broader cultural exchanges take shape, the collaboration is poised to become a benchmark for international opera partnerships.
 

Sayart / Jack Lee, wangjb77@gmail.com