Greek National Opera Triumphs in China With La Traviata

The Greek National Opera (GNO) opened its 2025/26 international season with resounding success in China.

The company staged two performances of Giuseppe Verdi’s La Traviata on September 13 and 14, 2025, at the Guangming Culture & Arts Center in Shenzhen, a booming metropolis of 17 million people.

Enthusiastic audiences in Shenzhen

Both evenings drew full houses of 1,200 seats. The audience responded with extended applause and ovations. Loukas Karytinos conducted the performances, while Nikos S. Petropoulos designed and directed the staging, sets, and costumes. Ion Kesoulis revived the production, and Christos Tziogas created the lighting design.

Shenzhen, a bustling metropolis in southern China with a population of over 17 million, is known for its striking skyline, impressive modern infrastructure, and cultural attractions. The city features one of the world’s largest metro systems, wide boulevards, and futuristic skyscrapers that dominate its urban landscape.

Shenzhen is home to numerous parks, museums, and art districts, blending contemporary architecture with local culture. Its lively entertainment scene, shopping areas, and cultural festivals showcase a dynamic mix of modernity and tradition.

A cast of distinguished Greek voices

The cast featured some of Greece’s leading operatic voices. Sopranos Vassiliki Karagianni and Dimitra Kotidou alternated as Violetta Valéry. Tenors Giannis Christopoulos and Konstantinos Klironomos shared the role of Alfredo. Dionysios Sourbis sang Giorgio Germont.

They were joined by soloists Chrysanthi Spitadi, Eleni Voudouraki, Giannis Kalyvas, Haris Andrianos, Nikos Kotenidis, Giannis Giannisis, Nikos Katsigiannis, and Ioannis Kontellis. The GNO Orchestra, Chorus, and members of its Ballet completed the all-Greek ensemble under the direction of Agathangelos Georgakatos.

A statement of global presence

For the Greek National Opera, the Shenzhen tour is more than a series of performances—it is a statement of artistic presence on the world stage. “The warm reception of our work by Chinese audiences fills us with joy,” said Artistic Director Giorgos Koumendakis.

“This tour marks an important moment in the history of the GNO and reaffirms our international standing.” The tour was supported by the Stavros Niarchos Foundation, whose donation expands the company’s global outreach. The Greek Ministry of Culture also assisted with logistics.

The triumph in Shenzhen confirms the Greek National Opera’s role as a cultural ambassador. It shows how national institutions can share their heritage worldwide while remaining true to their artistic identity.