My evening at the State Opera in Prague on Sunday, September 22, for Nabucco was, as always, a warm and wonderful surprise. There’s something truly special about this theater. It holds a deep, personal connection for me—it was here in 2021 that I received my first press ticket to see Madama Butterfly. The experience of returning always feels like visiting a family in a foreign land, even though Prague is culturally, linguistically, and even monetarily different from what I’m used to. The warmth of the welcome and the rich atmosphere always make these visits too short but incredibly fulfilling.
The evening was made extraordinary by the brilliant performance of Stepan Drobít, who was the undisputed star of the night. This young baritone delivered an exceptional performance, with a voice that can only be described as heaven-sent. He commanded the stage effortlessly, delivering each aria with precision, depth, and raw power. His portrayal of Nabucco had me completely captivated. With his undeniable talent, I have no doubt that in the years to come, he will be one of the greats in roles like Rigoletto—he’s well on his way to becoming an outstanding figure in the opera world.
Another standout was the conductor, Piotr Staniszewski. From my seat directly behind him in the first row of the orchestra section, I had the rare privilege of watching his every move up close. His mastery over the orchestra was palpable; he led them with such finesse and control, every note perfectly placed. The orchestra’s rich sound carried the drama of Verdi’s score to new heights, and Staniszewski’s direction made the music soar.
The State Opera’s choir also deserves high praise. Nabucco is known for its powerful choruses, and this one was no exception. The famous “Va, pensiero” chorus brought the house down, and I have to admit, I sang along quietly with them, feeling fully immersed in the energy of the moment. I may need to send them a bill for my dry cleaning, given how much I sweated from the excitement of singing along! The strength of the choir was a critical part of what made this performance unforgettable.
Oksana Nosatova, who portrayed Abigaille, was a force to be reckoned with. Her performance was marked by powerful high notes and a fierce stage presence. She delivered her demanding role with confidence and poise, and her acting was sharp and engaging. I had not seen her perform before, but her performance left a lasting impression. She was a wonderful surprise, and I hope to see more of her in future productions.
The talent in Prague is exceptional, and it’s astonishing that it doesn’t receive the international recognition it deserves. The cast and musicians here are a treasure trove of untapped brilliance. I sincerely hope that casting directors from around the world begin to take notice of the incredible potential within this company. Prague is not just a historical gem of a city—it’s also a city full of operatic talent that deserves a much larger spotlight.
I can’t wait to return to this magical theater for Otello in one month, and immerse myself in yet another unforgettable night of opera.
