Performer: Ioan Hotea

Sir Bryn Terfel relishes every nuance of the text, but Damiano Michieletto's reading of Donizetti's comedy is no laughing matter. 

In Donizetti’s most popular comic opera, the great mix of slapstick buffa and an obtuse venue make up the stuffs of what audiences continue to love. 

Operalia is a curious beast among voice competitions. Step onto the stage, belt out your aria and, before you’ve barely had time to acknowledge the applause, the next contestant shuffles along the conveyor belt. A one-shot saloon.