Baritone George Gagnidze under Staatsoper Hamburg spotlight

Georgia’s opera star George Gagnidze is under the spotlight of an ongoing double bill show at Germany’s Staatsoper Hamburg venue, appearing in classics Cavalleria rusticana and Pagliacci.

Hosted by one of Germany’s most important opera venues, the program for the two productions launched on September 22 and will involve three more productions next month.

Gagnidze will perform the role of Alfio in Cavalleria rusticana and Tonio/Taddeo in Pagliacci on October 4, 7, 12 at the theatre.

The Georgian singer is partnered in principal roles with Elena Zhidkova, Teodor Ilincai and Dorottya Lang in Cavalleria rusticana, and by Alfred Kim and Hayoung Lee in the latter show.

The two productions are presented with 1988 redactions to the late 19th century stagings by Pietro Mascagni and Ruggero Leoncavallo.

Directed by Gian-Carlo del Monaco, the two shows feature set and costume design by Michael Scott.

The Philharmonic Orchestra and Choir of Staatsoper Hamburg will provide the musical backdrop for the performances.

Don't worry, smoking only on stage ;-). Tonight #Alfio / #Tonio in the double bill #CavalleriaRusticana/#Pagliacci@staatsoperHH! pic.twitter.com/o2UMVYiaul

— George Gagnidze (@GeorgeGagnidze) September 26, 2017

Gagnidze previously performed in the double bill of Cavalleria rusticana and Pagliacci at New York’s Metropolitan Opera.

Born in Georgia, he graduated from Tbilisi State Conservatoire before joining the Georgian capital’s Opera and Ballet State Theatre in 1996.

The baritone received the First Prize of the 2005 Concorso Voci Verdiane in Italy from a jury chaired by famed tenor Jose Carreras and soprano Katia Ricciarelli.

On the back of the successful appearance, Gagnidze launched his international career in Germany and has performed at some of the most prestigious stages around the world.

These include New York’s Lincoln Centre, Metropolitan Opera and Deutsche Oper Berlin.