#SHOWBIZ: KL City Opera brings Puccini's 'Turandot' back to Malaysia after 20 years

KUALA LUMPUR: Kuala Lumpur City Opera (KLCO) is bringing back Giacomo Puccini's Turandot to Malaysia after a 20-year hiatus, as part of the 2026 Week of the Italian Language in the World celebrations. The production, conducted by Italian maestro Alessandro Mazzocchetti and supported by the Embassy of Italy in Kuala Lumpur, runs from October 17 to 25 at the Kuala Lumpur Performing Arts Centre (klpac).

Italian Ambassador to Malaysia Raffaele Langella emphasized that this initiative promotes the Italian language, its use, and dissemination, as well as Italian culture in Malaysia. The Ambassador highlighted that Mazzocchetti's involvement, along with a talented Malaysian and international cast, is a significant example of cultural diplomacy, fostering dialogue, artistic exchange, and strengthening friendship and cooperation between Italy and Malaysia.

Featuring a 50-piece orchestra, a 70-member chorus, and distinguished principal singers, this new production aims to capture the full grandeur of Puccini's final opera. Directed by Amelia Tan and featuring a creative collaboration with Malaysian fashion house Behati, the staging offers a contemporary visual style. Performed in Italian with English and Chinese surtitles, Turandot is an opportunity for both seasoned opera enthusiasts and first-time audiences to experience the richness of Italy's musical and linguistic heritage.