September 28 – October 2, 2023
The International Friends of Festival Verdi Weekend was held in Parma, Italy from September 28 – October 2, 2023. Those that joined us enjoyed performances of I Lombardi and Il Trovatore at Teatro Regio in Parma, as well as a performance of Falstaff at Teatro Verdi in Busseto. The Itinerary also included a Gala dinner at one of Parma’s most historic restaurants, premium opera tickets, excursions to Modena and Busseto, a backstage tour of Teatro Regio, and exclusive pre and post-theater receptions, and other bespoken events.
September 28, Thursday
Arrival in Italy
Participants received private or shared transfers from Milan Malpensa/Milan Hotel to Parma. After settling in at the Novotel in Parma, those who attended the weekend enjoyed a Gala Dinner at one of Parma’s most historic and authentic restaurants, as well as a Night on the Town presented by Verdi OFF.
September 29, Friday
Excursion to Modena
Modena is the home of some of the world’s most celebrated instruments – Ferrari, Lamborghini, and the voices of Mirella Freni and Luciano Pavarotti. The town is also known worldwide for its aged balsamic vinegar. We visited this musical, gastronomic and automotive capital on Friday, September 29 to see what it’s all about.
8 PM I Lombardi at Teatro Regio
We had a dedicated space for pre-theater and intermission drinks and conversation.
Superintendent’s Reception for IFFV in Teatro Regio after the performance with artists, VIP’s and local politicians.
September30, Saturday
Excursion to Busseto
Busseto and the surrounding towns are the birthplace and stomping ground of Giuseppe Verdi. We visited the castle fortress of Rocca di Meli in Soragna, and had a private visit at the charming Renata Tebaldi museum in Busseto. Tebaldi was one of the most celebrated singers of Verdi and Toscanani famously said she had “the voice of an angel”. We then enjoyed pre-theater dinner in town before heading to the Teatro Giuseppi Verdi.
8 PM Falstaff in Busseto
October 1, Sunday
Sunday Lunch
We enjoyed an early lunch at one of Parma’s extraordinary restaurants before today’s matinee performance.
Teatro Regio Backstage Tour
We then headed backstage as the technical staff showed us some inner workings that made the productions come to life.
3 PM Il Trovatore at Teatro Regio
October 2, Monday
Departure
Private or shared vans were taken to Milano Malpensa