15 competitors, from four different continents competed in Tirana, in the 18th edition of the International Festival of Operatic Singers “Marie Kraja”, which took place from March 28-30.

Albanian-German soprano Carolina Lopez Moreno was announced the winner of the first prize of the 18th edition of the International Vocal Opera Festival “Marie Kraja”, which took place at the Opera and Ballet Theater from March.

The jury composed of the general directors of several European theaters, chaired by the President of Opera Europe, Anna Maria Meo, awarded 4 competitors among the 15 participating competitors.

The second prize went to baritone Samueol Park from South Korea, and the third prize went to soprano Yulia Merkudinova from Ukraine, who also won the song award. The festival, which dedicated a special moment to the events in Ukraine, awarded the third prize to soprano Yulia Merkudinova, who was also selected by the Opera and Ballet Theater Orchestra for the orchestra award.

The International Festival of Operatic Singers “Marie Kraja” is the only event in Albania that aims to promote and develop talents in the area of operatic art through an interface between the talents from different countries of the world by organizing a competition of international artistic standards, and an exchange of experiences, which is very crucial for this genre of arts.

The International Jury with members such as directors of European national opera houses, operatic singers, presidents of operatic agencies among the most successful, it helps to promote the achievements of this Festivalworldwide.

The International Festival of Operatic Singers “Marie Kraja” was initiated in 1999 by Mrs. Zana Çela. With the Association “Culture-Media-Arts” that she was chairing, Mrs. Cela has been able to sensitize different Albanian and foreign institutions and organizations that support it, and are the Festival’s main partners.

/Klara Ruci/