Indianapolis Opera and Italian Heritage Society Present VIVA VERDI! Today

Indianapolis will be part of an international celebration of the 200th anniversary of Giuseppe Verdi's birth, joining hundreds of other cities around the world.

2013 is also the Year of Italian Culture in the United States and this performance will showcase local operatic and musical talent in tribute to the Italian maestro's incomparable contribution to opera.

The performance will include selections from Verdi's most celebrated works including La Traviata, Rigoletto, Nabucco, Macbeth, and many more.

Artistic Director, James Caraher says, "Verdi has always been one of my favorite composers to conduct, so this will be a great opportunity to celebrate his 200th birthday, as well as to participate in this very special Year of Italian Culture in the United States. The program will include many of Verdi's most famous arias, duets and choruses, and unfold through narration that will tie the music to important aspects of the history of that time in Italy. It should be an informative as well as fun and inspiring afternoon!"

Ralph Tambasco, President of the Italian Heritage Society says, "Our collaboration with the Indianapolis Opera is a very natural fit, given the prominent role Italian opera holds in our heritage for hundreds of years. It is my desire that the community of Indianapolis will come and enjoy what promises to be a beautiful and inspiring performance."

The concert will be performed today, November 17th from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Basile Opera Center at 40th and Pennsylvania. Seating is limited. Tickets are $30.00 (students $15.00) and on sale on line at www.indyopera.org/opera-concerts.

The Indianapolis Opera was founded in 1975 and is the only professional opera company in Indiana.

The Italian Heritage Society of Indiana was founded in 1993, a non-profit organization that welcomes anyone who is interested in the Italian lifestyle, culture and history. www.italianheritage.org.