Week of the Italian Language in the World: Maestro Alessandro Mazzocchetti and Kuala Lumpur City Opera Bring Puccini’s Turandot to the Stage
17–25 October 2026 | Kuala Lumpur Performing Arts Centre (klpac)
As part of the celebrations of the 2026 Week of the Italian Language in the World, the Embassy of Italy in Kuala Lumpur is pleased to support Kuala Lumpur City Opera’s (KLCO) production of Giacomo Puccini’s Turandot, under the musical direction of acclaimed Italian conductor Maestro Alessandro Mazzocchetti.
Taking place from 17 to 25 October 2026 at the Kuala Lumpur Performing Arts Centre (klpac), the production marks the return to the Malaysian stage, after more than two decades, of one of the most celebrated masterpieces of Italian opera.
“This initiative forms part of the Embassy’s ongoing efforts to promote the Italian language, its use and dissemination, and Italian culture in Malaysia. Opera, one of the most representative expressions of Italy’s artistic heritage, offers an exceptional means of promoting the Italian language, transcending linguistic and cultural boundaries through the universal power of music and theatre,” stated Ambassador Raffaele Langella.
The Ambassador further emphasised that “Maestro Mazzocchetti’s participation at the helm of a production bringing together Malaysian and international artists is also a significant example of cultural diplomacy, fostering dialogue, the exchange of artistic expertise, and the strengthening of the bonds of friendship and cooperation between Italy and Malaysia. The Embassy is particularly pleased to have worked alongside KL City Opera to make this important cultural initiative possible.”
Featuring a 50-piece orchestra, a 70-member chorus and a distinguished cast of principal singers, this new production promises to capture the grandeur of Puccini’s final opera. Directed by Amelia Tan, the production also features a creative collaboration with Malaysian fashion house Behati, bringing a contemporary visual interpretation to this timeless masterpiece.
Performed in Italian with English and Chinese surtitles, Turandot offers both experienced opera enthusiasts and first-time audiences an opportunity to discover the richness of Italy’s musical and linguistic heritage.
Through its support for this initiative, the Embassy of Italy reaffirms its commitment to promoting Italian cultural excellence and creating meaningful opportunities for artistic collaboration and cultural exchange with Malaysia.
For information and tickets: www.klcityopera.com & https://www.cloudjoi.com/shows/6871-turandot-an-opera-by-giacomo-puccini
