Accra gears up for ‘Accra Goes to Opera’ concert celebrating classical music and cultural unity

Opera enthusiasts in Accra are in for an extraordinary evening as the much-anticipated "Accra Goes to Opera" concert takes centre stage on November 24, 2024, at ICGC Christ Temple, East Bush Road. 

The event promises an enchanting showcase of classical music, operatic performances, and a celebration of African cultural unity.

The headline act for the evening, Lumina, a remarkable Ghanaian music group, is set to deliver soul-stirring opera with a local twist. 

Fresh from their acceptance into the esteemed American Institute of Musical Studies (AIMS) Opera Studio programme in Austria, Lumina will captivate audiences with recomposed Ghanaian pieces blended with operatic pop, offering a unique take on traditional sounds through world-class opera techniques.

The event will also feature celebrated South African opera singers Tiego and Dorothy, who will join Lumina on stage to deliver what promises to be a mesmerising performance. 

Their collaboration aims to offer an unforgettable experience that bridges the gap between classical European opera and rich African cultural expressions, underscoring a united African artistic agenda.

In anticipation of the concert, Amos George Tetteh, Artistic Director of Lumina, spoke on the group’s commitment to pushing creative boundaries. 

“We are committed to creating and presenting mind-blowing pieces by rearranging traditional pieces into contemporary works,” he shared. 

“We have engaged in collaborations and coproductions with artists from different genres, coming up with new forms of opera coproduction and presentations. Patrons will experience an exciting event at Accra Goes to Opera.”

Beyond its musical allure, "Accra Goes to Opera" is a cultural initiative that seeks to promote classical music and artistic excellence in Ghana, making opera accessible to a broader audience. The event also serves as the foundation for an annual series celebrating the diverse interpretations of opera and classical music in Ghana and across Africa.

Tetteh emphasised the mission of the concert as a bridge across cultures, showcasing both local and international talent. 

“We’re thrilled to bring this unique experience to Accra, highlighting local and international talent,” he added, reflecting the event's ambition to inspire new audiences and foster a deeper appreciation for opera in Ghana.

“Accra Goes to Opera” is not only a platform for showcasing operatic talent but also a celebration of African unity and artistic partnership, drawing performers from diverse backgrounds to share in the transformative power of music. As Accra readies for this cultural event, the concert is set to establish a new tradition in Ghana’s arts scene, celebrating opera’s timeless beauty and its resonance with Ghanaian audiences.