Never mind Gangnam style… we surprised unsuspecting passengers checking in for our inaugural Verona flight at Gatwick Airport yesterday, opera style!
Soprano, Alison Langer and Mezzo, Bethan Langford, both students at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama, were on hand to get passengers in the mood for their trip to the opera loving destination, by singing a variety of well-known arias, including Puccini’s Quando m’en Vo, O Mio Babbinno Caro and Mi Chiamao Mimi.
The celebrations were a fitting tribute to the world famous opera city, as its renowned festival is celebrating its centenary this year. From 14 June to 8 September, 58 performances of six operas and four Gala nights will be staged at the Arena di Verona for the centennial edition of the Opera Festival, dedicated to the great composer, Giuseppe Verdi, on the occasion of the bicentenary of his birth. The Opera Festival 2013 will see the famous tenor, Plácido Domingo, as honorary Artistic Director, as well as conductor and singer in several performances on this, arguably the greatest opera stage in the world.
The new route to Verona operates three times a week and makes a perfect getaway for a weekend city break, with flights operating on Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday.
Flights to Verona are available to book with fares, including taxes, starting from £42.49 one way, including taxes and charges.