The Orpheum prepares for an inferno as Villazón debuts in Vancouver BC

When one lists the world’s greatest opera voices – Flòrez, Domingo, Vargas – it is no surprise that many are Latin American. When asked why the most impressive tenors these days hail from that region, Villazón jokes, “There must be something in the tequila!”

Headed for a life in the priesthood, Villazón enjoyed imitating his idol, Plácido Domingo, crafting his talent in the deep acoustics of the churches of Mexico City. Villazón is often called “the young Domingo,” a telling statement, given that Domingo inspired Villazón to his life on the opera stage.
Of one of the most in-demand tenors around the globe, the VRS’s artistic director Leila Getz, says, “Villazón brings passion and artistry to the stage that is seldom seen today. His musicianship and charisma are awesome.”

The VRS is extremely fortunate to present Villazón’s Canadian debut, between performances at the Metropolitan Opera in New York and Covent Garden in London. “Sharing him with such legendary stages is just a testament to Villazón’s undeniable talent. We are so lucky in Vancouver to get a glimpse of opera’s man of the moment,” says Getz.
Villazón’s performance will include Schumann’s Dichterliebe and works by Massenet, Fauré, Tosti, Handel, Obradors, and Bononcini. The young tenor will be accompanied by Bryndon Hassman at the piano. Single tickets start at $29 and are now available through Ticketmaster at 604.280.3311 or at www.ticketmaster.ca. For a 2006/2007 recital series brochure, or to subscribe, call the VRS at 604.602.0363 or visit www.vanrecital.com.
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