Washington, September 22, 2020.
The Ambassador of Italy Armando Varricchio conferred to Francesca Zambello, Artistic Director of the Washington National Opera (WNO) and Artistic and General Director of the Glimmerglass Festival, the Knighthood of the Order of the Star of Italy for her contribution to the promotion of the Italian musical and operatic heritage in the United States and in the world.
During her career, Francesca Zambello has given life to innovative opera productions adapting them to the cultural transformations of our times, enjoying critical and public success. Ambassador Varricchio recalled how Director Zambello “has always looked to the future with particular attention to the younger generations, always keeping firm roots in the Italian opera tradition.”
Director Zambello thanked Italy for the honor. “I have worked around the world in more than a hundred theaters, but the more than 30 productions I directed in Italy are the ones I cherish the most,” Director Zambello said. “How amazing that the country of Italy, over 400 years ago, gave us the art form of opera that we love so much today. I am proud to serve the legacy of this country. It is an honor to be here with you and to continue to serve the wonders of Italy and this great art form.”
The ceremony took place at Villa Firenze Residence of the Ambassador of Italy in Washington where Alexandria Shiner, winner of the “Metropolitan Opera National Competition” and laureate of the Cafritz Young Artist Program of the WNO, performed some famous arias from Italian operas.
