In celebration of Le French May 2009, Opera Hong Kong is proud to co-present with Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra three gala concerts, featuring some of the rising stars of the world stage (see also next page). Opera Gala Concert on May 8 and May 10, 2009 will present to the audience a wide range of famous arias, including some favorites from French operas.

Audience will no doubt be delighted to hear so many good selections from the best composers. The highlights of the evening include "Les Oiseaux dans la charmille" from Tales of Hoffman by Offenbach, “Ah! leve-toi soleil” from Roméo et Juliette by Gounod, “Habanera” from Carmen by Bizet, “Au fond du temple saint” from Les Pecheurs des Perles by Bizet, “Flower Duet” from Lakme by Delibes , "Caro nome" from Rigoletto by Verdi,  “E strano...sempre libera”  from La Traviata by Verdi, “Mi chiamano Mimi” from La Bohème by Puccini, and “Una voce poco fa” from Il Barbiere di Siviglia by Rossini.

Under the conductor Zhang Guo Yong, whose conducting is concise, natural, full of animation, and combines fiery passion with a deep rationality, the arias will be presented in Solo, Duet, Trio and Quartet.