Verdi’s Nabucco under the stars at Megaron Athens

The gardens of the Megaron Athens Concert Hall once again become an open-air destination for music lovers this summer, as the venue continues its successful collaboration with UNITEL, one of the world’s leading producers and distributors of classical music and opera recordings. On Thursday, June 25 at 20:30, audiences will have the opportunity to experience Giuseppe Verdi’s monumental Nabucco in a spectacular production from the Arena di Verona, featuring renowned soprano Anna Netrebko in the demanding role of Abigaille.

Part of the Megaron’s annual summer screenings programme, the event brings one of opera’s most beloved masterpieces to Athens through UNITEL’s acclaimed recording. For more than fifty years, the company has documented some of the most important performances in classical music, making iconic productions accessible to audiences around the world.

First premiered in 1842, Nabucco remains one of Verdi’s defining works. The opera tells the story of the Babylonian king Nebuchadnezzar, the exile of the Hebrew people, and the celebrated chorus “Va, pensiero”, a musical plea for freedom that has resonated with generations of listeners. In this production, director Stefano Poda reimagines the work through a contemporary lens, creating a timeless vision of conflict, unity and hope. Futuristic stage designs and striking visual effects transform the ancient Arena di Verona into an immersive audiovisual spectacle.

At the centre of the production is Anna Netrebko, one of the most celebrated sopranos of our time. Her portrayal of Abigaille, one of opera’s most technically and dramatically demanding roles, combines vocal power with emotional intensity. Joining her is a distinguished international cast, led by Amartüvshin Enkhbat in the title role, alongside Galeano Salas, Christian van Horn and Francesca di Sauro.

The Orchestra and Chorus of the Fondazione Arena di Verona perform under the baton of Pinchas Steinberg, whose energetic interpretation brings Verdi’s score vividly to life.