La Serva Padrona, Festival de Ópera do Paraná 2016. Photo supplied

Opera for All

The Festival de Ópera do Paraná in Brazil has become a headline cultural event, breaking down barriers and attracting wider and younger audiences. What’s more, it’s completely free. Mahima Macchione explores the unorthodox approach taken by the pioneering festival Director Gehad Hajar.

Imagine an opera festival like no other. Imagine your city being taken over once a year by opera productions in the major theatres and cultural venues, but also in open-air spaces and public areas, as well as other unusual and unexpected locations. Imagine a festival program, which is as exciting for seasoned opera-goers as it...