The Peristyle's pinnacle of musical art: It is opera arias and top performers like these that attract young audiences

A high-profile opera gala concert took place on July 21, 2026, at Peristil, one of the most iconic open-air venues in Croatia. The event, part of the 72nd Split Summer Festival, drew a packed audience and featured performances by some of the country’s top musicians and artists. Maestro Ivan Repušić, a celebrated Croatian conductor with a distinguished international career, returned to the stage after nearly 18 years, showcasing his expertise in classical music. His performance was met with enthusiastic applause and admiration from the crowd, highlighting his status as one of the finest conductors in Croatia. The concert opened with Verdi's overture from La Forza del Destino, followed by Bellini’s famous aria “Casta Diva” from Norma, performed by soprano Adele Zaharije. Her vocal interpretation was praised for its power and beauty, drawing loud cheers from the audience. Tenor Tomislav Mužek and baritone George Petean also delivered compelling performances, further enhancing the emotional impact of the evening. The concert was a celebration of operatic excellence, featuring works by composers such as Verdi, Bellini, Leoncavallo, Giordano, Puccini, Bizet, and Gounod. The musical lineup included contributions from several prestigious groups, including the Choir of the Croatian National Theatre Split, the Choir of the Croatian Radio and Television, and the Symphony Orchestra of the Croatian Radio and Television. These ensembles brought to life a range of masterpieces from the world’s operatic repertoire, demonstrating both technical precision and artistic depth. The performance was described as a powerful blend of tradition and innovation, capturing the essence of classical music while appealing to contemporary audiences. One of the key themes of the event was the growing interest among younger generations in classical music. Organizers emphasized that the concert aimed to attract young people to opera through its high-quality performances and the presence of internationally renowned artists. Attendees were encouraged to experience the richness of operatic traditions and to appreciate the enduring appeal of this genre. The event was seen as a successful step toward fostering a new generation of classical music enthusiasts. The concert was held under clear skies, with the audience enjoying the unique atmosphere of Peristil, which has long been regarded as one of the best open-air stages in the world. The combination of exceptional talent, historical significance, and a vibrant audience created an unforgettable evening of music. The organizers expressed satisfaction with the turnout and the positive reception, noting that the event had achieved its goal of engaging younger audiences with the classics. The success of the Opera Gala concert underscores the continued relevance of classical music in modern culture. It also highlights the role of cultural institutions in preserving and promoting traditional arts. As the festival continues, similar events are expected to draw large crowds and maintain the momentum generated by this year’s performances. The concert will remain a memorable moment in the history of Split’s summer season, marking another milestone in the city’s rich cultural heritage.