Tuscany Opera Highlights

Evita with West End cast at Boboli, Florence

The Florentine OperaFestival continues with a repertoire of high-profile events that visitors to Tuscany simply can’t miss.

There’s still time to catch the wonderful West End production of “Evita”, with music by Andrea Lloyd Webber and lyrics by Tim Rice, which runs at Boboli Gardens until 20th June.

Concentrating on the rise to power and death of Eva Peron, this rock opera comes directly from London’s West End and is accompanied by a live classical orchestra.

July is devoted to Mozart and the staging of his opera, “The Magic Flute” on the 8th and the 15th of July, and of his “Don Giovanni”, on the 22nd and the 29th of July. These two operas will be staged in the magnificent surroundings of the Abbey of San Galgano.

The Magic Flute and Don Giovanni in performance at San Galgano, Tuscany

The Magic Flute and Don Giovanni in performance at San Galgano, Tuscany

Also in July, don’t miss Carl Orff’s striking scenic cantata, “Carmina Burana” at Boboli Gardens on the 13th and again at San Galgano on the 23rd.

On the 19th, the Gardens host the Otango Comany in “Cinc’ Otango”, a tango performance given by Argentine artists chosen for their ability to embrace the most sincere feelings of this dance.

Patty Pravo at OperaFestival, Tuscany on 14 July 2010

Patty Pravo at OperaFestival, Tuscany on 14 July 2010

Additionally, Italian pop singer, Patty Pravo performs in concert on the 14th of July.

And if you’re concerned about where to stay, here are some ideas for apartments and B&B accommodation in Florence.

For ticketing and more details about Operafestival, check out  the official website.

To book for the OperaFestival, please click here.

A Walk Round Italy’s Heel

Trulli di Alberobello, Italy
Image via Wikipedia

Leading guided walking tour specialist, Ramblers Worldwide Holidays is offering a one week, half board holiday based at Alberobello – on the heel of Italy‘s boot in Apulia.

Apulia is the capital of the Trulli region, famed for its curious cylindrical buildings with limestone, conical roofs – designated a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Walks around this beautiful area pass small-holdings of olives, vines, cherries, figs, peaches, almonds, woods of oak, forest paths and long-distance tracks meandering near canals.

An added dimension, is a small railway line providing access to ancient towns like Locorotondo (famous for its white wine) and Martina Franca with its splendid Baroque style buildings in honey coloured stone.

Further south is Lecce – home to some of Italy’s most flamboyant Baroque buildings.

Price for one week – from £605 per person, includes return flights, transfers, half board accommodation at 3-star Hotel Lanzillotta, and the services of a tour leader.

Book here
Tel: 01707 331133