Two opera productions will enrich Cyprus’ cultural calendar in September, bringing together dancers, musicians and choirs from the island and abroad. First up is of course the Pafos Aphrodite Festival which finally returns this year after a long break to present Verdi’s La Traviata.

Two opera evenings will be held, on September 6 and 7, turning the Paphos Castle Square into an outdoor opera theatre. Guiseppe Verdi’s renowned opera will be presented by the esteemed Tbilisi Opera and Ballet State Theatre in collaboration with the Cyprus Symphony Orchestra under the direction of Levan Jagaev.

Later on in the month, Limassol will welcome Madama Butterfly, another world-renowned opera by Giacomo Puccini. The performances on September 17 and 19 mark the 100th anniversary of the composer’s death in 1924 and to honour his masterpiece, artists from the island collaborate to adapt his opera.  

Across two evenings at the Pattihio Limassol Municipal Theatre, the Choir of Opera Cyprus, the Symphonic Orchestra of the Municipality of Limassol, and nine soloists, conducted by Maestro Piergiorgio Del Nunzio and directed by Paolo Baiocco will bring the love story to life. In the protagonist role sings the Cypriot soprano Maria Papaioannou.

La Traviata

Live opera, part of the Pafos Aphrodite Festival 2024. September 6-7. Medieval Castle Square, Paphos. 7.30pm. www.ticketmaster.cy

Madama Butterfly

Opera presented by the Choir of Opera Cyprus, the Symphonic Orchestra of the Municipality of Limassol and nine soloists. September 17 and 19. Pattihio Municipal Theatre, Limassol. 8.30pm. www.ticketmaster.cy