Have we ever told you that the oldest opera house in Spain is in Menorca? Maybe we have but never mind, there’s no harm in telling you again and in passing, take a trip through the tradition of the bel cantoon our island. It is an operatic tradition that has always been appreciated in the Menorca capital, especially, Italian opera.
The origins of the first performances date back to the mid-18th century, the result of the intense literary activity from the earlier part of the century. In 1820 and 1824, for example, La Cenerentola and La Gazza Ladra by Rossini were premiered in Maó, practically at the same time as they were in Barcelona.The same occurred with La Straniera by Bellini, performed for the first time in Barcelona in 1831 and opening in Mahónthat same year. The strategic position in the Mediterranean of the port of Mahón, shelter or obligatory stop-off of vessels from all origins, meant that the majority of companies that sailed on their way to other countriesmoored here. The passing of time saw the consolidation of the opera and in consequence, the construction of a venue that last year celebrated its 185th anniversary and which received the Gold Medal of the Ministry of Culture given by the King of Spain.
Later, in 1971, a group of friends decided to form a private non-profit association called Amics de S’Òpera de Maó which was able to bring together opera lovers, endeavouring to maintain and continue the opera tradition. The association, which this year completes its 45th anniversary, was set up as a consequence of the programming of Rigoletto tocommemorate the one hundred and fiftieth anniversary of the opening of regular seasons of Italian opera in the theatre in Mahón.
Since then every year, opera returns punctually to the Teatre Principal in Mahón thanks to the boost given by this entity, which over time has become a Foundation, protected by public institutions. Menorca is and has been loyal to the opera world, even contributing with the talent of outstanding singers born on the island such as the distinguished baritone Joan Pons (one of the Spanish singers who has sung many times in the Metropolitan of Nueva York) or more recently the bass baritone Simon Orfila, in the middle of an upward career. Check the programme in operamenorca.com !
