The NJ Association of Verismo Opera (Verismo Opera) returns to the Leonia Public Library, 227 Fort Lee Road, in Leonia, New Jersey, with its new program, Moments in Opera, Saturday, February 25, 3:00-4:00 p.m.   The event is FREE and open to the public.

Verismo Opera's international cast of stars will sing vignettes from past productions, including the well-received performance of Tosca at the Bergen Performing Arts Center (bergenPAC) in Englewood, New Jersey and excerpts from the upcoming production of Il Trovatore on April 20 at 7:30 p.m. and April 22 at 3:00 p.m. at bergenPAC.  A special performance will be given by Metropolitan Opera star and Verismo Opera’s Artistic Director Lucine Amara.       

Among the artists appearing in Il Trovatore and scheduled to sing in Leonia are Canadian soprano Sharon Azrieli Perez, who will assume the role of Leonora and previously appeared with the company in Aida, and Mexican tenor Roberto Esquivelzeta will make his debut with the company as Manrico.  Verismo Opera newcomer Argentine baritone Gustavo Ahualli will perform the role of Count di Luna.  Other singers scheduled to appear in Leonia are Canadian soprano and Verismo Opera’s production director of Il Trovatore, Evelyn La Quaif, and Allegra Durante, who will sing in the Verismo Opera Chorus.

For further information about the program, contact the Leonia Public Library at (201) 592-5770.  Learn more about the NJ Association of Verismo Opera, follow the company on Facebook, or call (201) 886-0561.