Da Corneto Opera, Chicago’s concert opera company, will present “A Salute to Luciano Pavarotti,” a benefit featuring Italian food and song honoring the late Italian tenor. Held in Chicago and Naperville, the events will feature da Corneto’s own Italian tenor, Francesco Valpa. A native of Sicily, Valpa was last heard at da Corneto Opera as Alvaro in “La Forza del Destino.”

“Luciano Pavarotti was certainly a great singer who deserves to be remembered and celebrated,” says General Manager, Kelli Finn. “I am especially pleased we could coordinate the event so close to the anniversary of Pavarotti’s debut in the role of Rodolfo in “La Bohème,” which took place April 29, 1961. More importantly, the popularity of Luciano Pavarotti strongly supports da Corneto’s belief that above all ‘Opera is voice, voice and more voice.’ Although Pavarotti possessed neither classic movie-star good looks or great ease on stage, he is one of the most beloved opera singers of all time. His voice resonated in the hearts of his listeners as they experienced the deep human emotions explored in the operatic repertoire. The opera world owes a great debt to Pavarotti in that he brought opera to so many people who would otherwise never have been exposed to this wonderful art form.”
 
The events will begin with appetizers and wine, followed by an Italian meal. Cash bar is offered. Musical entertainment will feature Valpa performing the Italian songs and operatic selections from the popular recording “PAVAROTTI Forever.” In honor of the upcoming Mother’s Day holiday, the program will include the sentimental favorite “Mamma,” in addition to standards such as “O Sole Mio” and “Core n’grato.” Additional da Corneto Opera soloists also will be featured.

Event locations

Friday, May 1, at 6:30 p.m.
Via Veneto Ristorante – 6340 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago
Four-course Italian dinner
Raffle, ESSE Jewelry Show and Musical Entertainment

Sunday, May 3, at 12:30 p.m.
White Eagle Golf Club – 3400 Club Drive, Naperville
Four-course Italian buffet lunch
Silent Auction and Musical Entertainment

Tickets cost $65 ($30 is tax-deductible) for adults, $15 for children 12 and younger. Adult tickets include one complimentary glass of wine. Coffee, tea and soft drinks are included. Tickets may be purchased online at dacorneto.org or by phone at (847) 662-2694. Advance reservations are required.