The Macao Orchestra (OM), under the auspices of the Cultural Affairs Bureau, was invited to participate in the performance of the Grand Original Opera – The Diaries of John Rabe in Nanjing from 13 to 15 December, in order to commemorate the 80th Anniversary of the Nanjing Massacre victims. Under the baton of OM’s Musical Director Lu Jia, the Macao Orchestra joined hands with the Jiangsu Performing Arts Group (JPAG) Symphony Orchestra, the Opera and Dance Drama Theatre of the JPAG, the Student Choir Group of the School of Music of the Nanjing Normal University to present three concerts which won high acclaim and an enthusiastic applause from the audience.
On the occasion of the National Memorial Day for the Nanjing Massacre victims, the Grand Original Opera – The Diaries of John Rabe premiered at the Jiangsu Centre for Performing Arts on 13 December. The opera depicted the atrocities committed in Nanjing in the year of the massacre, as well as the fearlessness of people from various countries who, despite the violence, remained in Nanjing to help local citizens.
Eighteen OM elite musicians, including Section Principals, participated in the performance of the Grand Original Opera – The Diaries of John Rabe. Many musicians expressed that the opera had a great significance and allowed them to learn more about China’s history.
Upon its return to Macao, the Macao Orchestra will hold the concert “Starry Vienna – New Year Concert” at the Macao Cultural Centre Grand Auditorium on 30 December. Tickets are already sold out. For details and enquiries about the programme, please visit OM’s website at www.icm.gov.mo/om.