Bilbao Opera Chorus Stages Surprise Public Performance at Hotel Carlton
On Sept. 11, just over 50 members of the Bilbao Opera Chorus staged a performance from the balconies and windows of the Hotel Carlton, drawing dozens of people to Plaza Elíptica.
The event commemorated the centenary of the historic hotel and welcomed the 75th season of ABAO Bilbao Opera. The performance, organized by the Hotel Carlton and ABAO Bilbao Opera, transformed the façade of the iconic building into a grand stage open to the public.
Under the motto “Opera Comes to Bilbao,” the Bilbao Opera Chorus, directed by Esteban Urzelai, surprised residents and visitors alike with a performance of two of the most renowned choral scenes from the operatic repertoire. The performance began with the “Overture” to Rossini’s “Il barbiere di Siviglia,” followed by Verdi’s “Coro di zingari” from “Il trovatore,” and “Va, pensiero” from “Nabucco.”
The collaboration between the Hotel Carlton and ABAO Bilbao Opera further marked the historical link between both entities with the city and their shared commitment to promoting culture and projecting Bilbao as a cultural benchmark.
By Afton Markay