Opera in Paradise: Bella Voci at Pangkor Laut Resort

Cheshire’s own opera divas, Bella Voci, are to perform at private island paradise, Pangkor Laut Resort, this October in the first of what is set to be an annual event bringing world-class performers and fans together in unforgettable surroundings. 

Taking place from October 20 to 22, and for one special weekend every year thereafter, Opera in Paradise will welcome renowned musicians who have lit up concert halls and become household names the world over for an unforgettable operatic experience.  

Sophie Rowland and Emily Burnett, of Bella Voci (Image: c. Bella Voci)

For this year’s inaugural Opera in Paradise weekend, guests will enjoy the sensational talents of flautist Andrea Griminelli, Cheshire’s own operatic duo Belle Voci, and tenor Michael Austin. These three acts will perform on a most unusual stage, set in a positive paradise of sun, sea, sand and two-million-year-old virgin rainforests.  

The curated lineup of performers launching Opera in Paradise 2023 harks back to a semi-private performance by the larger-than-life tenor Luciano Pavarotti in 1994. The maestro had performed to a glittering gallery of distinguished guests on the grounds of Pangkor Laut Resort and during his visit, was so captivated and moved by the location that he exclaimed: ‘This place is enchanting, it is paradise here. This morning when I woke up, I went out (and) I was really moved, almost crying to see how beautiful things has (been) done by God. Because this is really paradise.’  

Pavarotti would go on to dedicate the song O Paradiso during his recital as his description of Pangkor Laut Resort. 

Opera in Paradise... (Image: c. Pangkor Laut Resort)Sophie Rowland and Emily Burnett, of Bella Voci, say: ‘We are thrilled to have been invited to perform at this very special concert in the spectacular setting of Pangkor Laut Resort in Malaysia. We look forward to following in Pavarotti's footsteps as we know that this island was close to his heart and sharing this wonderful occasion, and our love of classical music, with guests from across the world.’ 

The weekend looks set to be truly extraordinary, with the concert followed by sunset cocktails and dinner with views of the beautiful emerald waters and lush mountainscape. 

Guests can choose to share their good fortune by contributing to Hospis Malaysia, a charitable organisation with a vision to make palliative care universally accessible. This is achieved through the provision of evidence-based palliative care to patients and families at no charge, coupled with the training of others to extend this essential service to those who would otherwise find it inaccessible. 

For more information or to make a reservation, email travelcentre@ytlhotels.com. 

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