Gounod

The curtains have opened for the 31st International Aspendos Opera and Ballet Festival, held at the historic Aspendos Ancient Theater, with a performance of Guiseppe Verdi's opera, "Aida."

Organized by the Directorate of State Opera and Ballet, the event drew significant attention from art enthusiasts, with nearly 3,000 spectators attending the first night.

American-born, lyric coloratura soprano Nadine Sierra is one of the brightest stars in today's operatic firmament. Her glorious, sensuous vocal instrument - without hint of the dryness often present in this type of voice - is combined with considerable acting skills and looks to kill: a combination of Hollywood and the pages of Vogue.