Aug 03 2025 to Aug 03 2025 6:30 p.m.

Where

Bangalore International Centre

7 4th Main Rd, Stage 2, Domlur 560071

Event Description

Experience the drama, passion, and romance of opera in a concert featuring timeless masterpieces from Bizet’s Carmen, Verdi’s La Traviata, and Gounod’s Romeo and Juliet!

The South Asian Symphony Orchestra will be led by India-born Danish conductor Maria Badstue, and joined by stellar soloists—Indian-American tenor Alok Kumar and soprano Cheryl Bains. This concert brings the emotional power of grand opera to life in Bengaluru.

The South Asian Symphony Orchestra brings together talented musicians from across the region to foster peace and unity through music. Inspired by Ambassador Nirupama Menon Rao’s extensive years in diplomacy, the orchestra provides a platform to promote dialogue, cultural synergy, and friendly understanding.

Nirupama Rao, Founder/ Trustee of The South Asian Symphony Foundation says, “There is something profoundly symbolic about an orchestra. It is more than a group of musicians gathered to perform a piece of music; it is a living metaphor for what society could be — and perhaps what it must be, if we are to thrive together… This metaphor becomes even more powerful in today’s world, where individualism often overshadows community, and noise threatens to replace music. The orchestra reminds us that true greatness lies not in volume, but in harmony — in listening, adapting, and playing our part with care and respect.”

In collaboration with:

Supported by:

Performers

Maria Badstue
Conductor
Praised as “one of the best young Danish conductors of today” (Berlingske Media), Maria Badstue is known for her dynamic artistry and cross-cultural collaborations, with a growing international presence, leading orchestras and opera performances across Denmark, Sweden, France, Italy, and the United States.

Cheryl Bains
Soprano
Soprano and composer, Cheryl Bains is a graduate of the Manhattan School of Music and has appeared in opera and concert performances in the USA, Italy, Singapore, and India, performing leading roles from Lakmé to Susanna (The Marriage of Figaro). She recently premiered her original crossover opera “The Legend of the Goddess” at Mumbai’s Royal Opera House.

Alok Kumar
Tenor
Praised by The Guardian as “a knockout”, Indian-American tenor Alok Kumar has been a frequent presence on major opera stages including at The Metropolitan Opera, Royal Opera House (UK), and Los Angeles Opera, and appears regularly with top orchestras including The Cleveland Orchestra and San Diego Symphony.