World premiere of “Devoção”
Matheus Pompeu to star in J. G. Ripper's new opera in Belo Horizonte
The Grande Teatro Cemig Palácio das Artes will host the world premiere of the opera "Devoção" by João Guilherme Ripper, with libretto by André Cardoso, in July 2024, featuring tenor Matheus Pompeu in the role of Feliciano. A tale of faith, courage, and triumph.
As Maestro Ripper explains, "the plot revolves around the true story of Feliciano Mendes and his promise to build a sanctuary in Congonhas, but primarily delves into the rich and diverse devotions of Minas Gerais. The dialogue between formal rites, popular devotion, and syncretic street manifestations, expressed through music and dance, underlines the entire spectacle."
Hailing from Três Corações, Matheus Pompeu returns to the Palácio das Artes after seven years in Europe. "It will be incredibly moving to return to the stage where I lived my first professional experiences to interpret such a special work. Maestro Ripper's music possesses the Brazilian soul, translating our dreams, reaching the heart, and presenting the best of Brazil to the world," states the tenor.
Art and spirituality as gateways to new horizons have always been inseparable companions in Pompeu's journey: "like Feliciano, I am also a man who seeks to live my faith, who prays, who believes. It has been this way since childhood. I began singing in the Church. It's been wonderful to create this new character, rediscovering within myself these roots, this propulsive force of life, of meaning, of infinity," he asserts.
Performances in Belo Horizonte will take place on July 19, 20, 22, and 23. Joining the cast of soloists are Portuguese soprano Carla Caramujo, mezzo-soprano Bárbara Brasil, baritone Johnny França, and bass Savio Sperandio. The production will feature the participation of the Lyric Choir and the Minas Gerais Symphony Orchestra, the Congonhas Choir, and the Palácio das Artes Ballet Company, with stage direction by Ronaldo Zero and musical direction by Ligia Amadio.
