On Feb. 28, the Teatro Petruzzelli will present a production of Puccini’s “Manon Lescaut.”

The opera will star Marigona Qerkezi in the title role. This will be her role debut which she has noted is her “dream debut.”

She will joined by Denys Pivnitskyi as Dees Greiux, and Biagio Pizzuti as Lescaut. Francesco Cilluffo conducts the production by Massimo Gasparon.

In a statement Qerkezi said, “Manon is a fascinating and complex character. Although very young, she experiences intense and contrasting emotions, torn between the desire for genuine love and the allure of a life filled with luxury and freedom. Her story, along with Puccini’s extraordinary musical writing, takes us on a deep journey through human passions. I’m incredibly happy to bring this ‘first’ performance to the stage of Teatro Petruzzelli, a place that has been dear to me since my debut in 2017 and where I’ve had unforgettable artistic experiences. The audience in Bari has always welcomed me with incredible warmth and returning here with ‘Manon Lescaut’ is truly a tremendous honour: I’m eager to share the beauty and intensity of this remarkable opera with them! Lastly, I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude to all those who made this production possible.”

A second cast will star Hanying Tso, Konstantine Kipiani, and Giuseppe De Luca.

“Manon Lescaut” runs through March 6, 2025.

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