Palau de les Arts Reina Sofía

Palau de les Arts Reina Sofía in Valencia is not merely a theatre; designed by the Valencian architect Santiago Calatrava, it is an architectural and sculptural creation which is a venue for all kinds of arts. Operatic productions constitute the main artistic offerings of Les Arts, which in its 20 years of existence has presented nearly 200 different titles, co-produced with the most prestigious theatre companies in the world and has invited some of the greatest opera stars. The Orquestra de la Comunitat Valenciana (OCV), founded by Lorin Maazel, and the Cor de la Generalitat Valenciana are the fundamental pillars for developing the activity of Les Arts.

Les Arts is home to the Centre de Perfeccionament, one of the best Opera Studios in the world and unique in Spain. After almost 16 years of existence, the Centre has become a model for young singers and pianists who look forward to joining the professional world of opera. During two whole seasons, members of the Opera Studio take part in the life and activities of Les Arts. They develop their own programme of opera, recitals and concerts, but they also perform in the opera titles staged in the main hall. The Artistic mentors of the Opera Studio are often renowned artists with pedagogic experience, such as Alberto Zedda, Ruggero Raimondi, Raúl Giménez and, currently, María Bayo. Also, masterclasses given by prestigious opera singers (Plácido Domingo, Gregory Kunde, Jaume Aragall, Mariella Devia, Cristina Gallardo-Domâs, Jennifer Larmore or Carlos Chausson) provide further learning opportunities to the students.