Integrated resort (IR) operator Sands China held the “Concert of Love in Seoul” at The Venetian Theatre in Cotai on February 15, the event being the most recent highlight of the “Sands China Performing Arts Programme” which featured three renowned musicians from South Korea.
Organised in collaboration with the Cultural Affairs Bureau (IC) and the Macao Orchestra (OM), the statement noted that the first half of the concert saw soprano Lee Myung-Joo, who recently made her debut in the title role of Madama Butterfly (its original Italian title) at Opéra de Québec in Canada, perform several arias from operas by Italian composer and “the King of Opera” Giacomo Puccini (1858-1924).
The Macao Orchestra also performed Tchaikovsky’s “Romeo and Juliet” Fantasy Overture under the baton of conductor Sunwook Kim, who the statement said is the youngest and first Asian winner of the Leeds International Piano Competition in the UK.
The statement added that “The Goddess of Flute”, Jasmine Choi, then performed alongside the orchestra, presenting her debut of a reimagined rendition of “Butterfly Lover”. Choi, who is recognised as “one of the best flutists in the history of music” by British publication Sinfini Magazine, also performed the Korean folk song “Arirang” with the orchestra during the encore.
The day after, Sands China also held the “Meeting with the Artiste – Jasmine Choi”, which invited 140 local wind instrument enthusiasts, students and musicians.
Sands China Executive Vice Chairman Wilfred Wong Ying-wai was quoted by the statement as saying: “By hosting this concert with South Korean artists and its associated meeting - in celebration of love over the Valentine’s Day weekend – we aim to enrich lives through the unifying power of music that transcends borders and provide inspiration to music enthusiasts”.
The meeting with the artiste also aimed at enhancing cultural exchanges between local youths and international musicians, while “improving their musical skills and expanding their global horizons”, Wong said.
He added: “Looking ahead, we remain steadfast in introducing a diverse array of non-gaming entertainment options, including arts, cultural, and sporting events, to further elevate the city’s cultural offerings for both residents and visitors.”
This handout photo provided by Sands China earlier this week shows a performance during the recently held “Concert of Love in Seoul” at The Venetian Theatre in Cotai.
