In an extraordinary evening that blended the grandeur of ancient Egyptian history with the creative brilliance of Italian opera, the Italian Embassy in Cairo hosted the world premiere of the opera "Tutankhamun." Inspired by the life and legend of the "Boy King," the performance serves as a magnificent prelude to its upcoming global tour.
This monumental artistic production is the result of a unique international collaboration. The story was penned by the world-renowned Egyptian archaeologist Dr. Zahi Hawass, with libretto by journalist Francesco Santocono, and music composed by the Italian maestro Lino Zimbone. The project aims to build a cultural bridge across the Mediterranean, evoking the prestigious operatic traditions that began with Aida in the 19th century.
A Star-Studded Gathering
The event was attended by a distinguished assembly of state officials, judiciary members, diplomats, and icons of the arts. Notable guests included:
Dr. Zahi Hawass, Egyptologist and author of the opera.
H.E. Michele Quaroni, the Italian Ambassador to Egypt.
Counselor Sameh Abdel-Hakam, President of the Criminal Court and Supreme State Security, and his wife Mrs. Mona El-Sisi.
Mr. Amr Moussa, former Secretary-General of the Arab League.
Dr. Mamdouh El-Damaty, former Minister of Antiquities.
Ms. Elham Abu El-Fateh, Head of the Sada El-Balad Network, and Mr. Mohamed Wadee, Editor-in-Chief.
The ceremony also featured high-level heritage figures, including Dr. Ahmed Ghoneim (CEO of the Grand Egyptian Museum), Dr. El-Tayeb Abbas (Head of the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization), Dr. Mostafa Waziri, and Mr. Ali Abu Deshish. Celebrated stars from the arts and media sectors were also present, including Hussein Fahmy, Yehia El-Fakharany, Mohamed Ramadan, Rania Youssef, and businessman Naguib Sawiris.
Artistic Brilliance and Honors
Tenor Davide Piaggio and Soprano Chiara Salerno delivered a breathtaking performance, showcasing the opera's emotional depth and themes. The work adopts the Italian "Bel Canto" tradition, reimagined through a contemporary musical lens.
During the event, the "Assisi Strategic Forum" and the "Assisi Foundation for Peace" honored composer Lino Zimbone for his role in promoting peace and prosperity through the universal language of art.
Global Horizons
Supported by "Grand Opera Italy," this initiative marks the launch of a series of international performances organized by "Giuseppe Rapisarda Management." The global tour is scheduled to begin in 2026, traveling to major cultural capitals to share the joint message of Egypt and Italy through the story of the Pharaoh whose mysteries continue to captivate humanity.
The Creative Team
Dr. Zahi Hawass (Author): A global icon of contemporary archaeology who has dedicated his life to protecting Egypt’s heritage. His research spans the Pyramids to the Valley of the Kings, with a deep focus on the era of Tutankhamun.
Lino Zimbone (Composer): An Italian composer known for a musical language that blends narrative power with melodic sensitivity. His work is characterized by rich orchestral coloring and the ability to transform music into vivid storytelling.
Francesco Santocono (Librettist): An author with a natural flair for historical epics. His writing combines meticulous research with theatrical imagination, bringing the events of the past to life for modern audiences.
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