Opera Italiana is in the Air will return to the nation’s capital with a special one-night concert, offering a distinctive musical experience beneath the stars. On Sunday, June 15, the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool will serve as the backdrop for Opera Unbound: A Sunset Serenade, a free outdoor performance poised to captivate audiences of all ages.
Strategically timed for Father’s Day weekend, this event redefines traditional Italian opera by presenting it in an open-air setting. Whether you are an ardent opera enthusiast, a first-time attendee, or simply seeking an unforgettable cultural outing, this performance promises an extraordinary evening for all attendees.
World-Class Talent on Display
Marking its fourth appearance at the Lincoln Memorial, Opera Italiana’s 2025 concert will showcase internationally acclaimed opera stars performing an array of iconic arias. Highlights of the evening include Nessun Dorma and famous arias and pop works, delivered by esteemed maestros of the craft:
- Leah Hawkins, soprano, celebrated for her spellbinding performances at the Metropolitan Opera and Washington National Opera. A former Cafritz Young Artist, Hawkins was honored with the prestigious Beverly Sills Artist Award from the Met in 2024.
- Murat Karahan, tenor, who has garnered worldwide recognition through his performances at the Vienna State Opera and Deutsche Oper Berlin, among other renowned stages.
Conceived by Italian conductor Maestro Alvise Casellati, Opera Italiana is in the Air seeks to broaden opera’s reach by moving performances beyond concert halls and into iconic public spaces. From Central Park to Villa Borghese, Casellati’s vision is to enliven historic and contemporary settings with the timeless beauty of opera. His hope is to inspire and elevate, sharing the magic of opera with individuals from all walks of life.
Event Details at a Glance
When: Sunday, June 15, 2025 | 6:30 PM
Where: Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, National Mall, Washington, D.C.
What to Bring: Admission is free. No tickets or dress code required. Guests are welcome to bring blankets, lawn chairs, and picnics.
Preserving a Cultural Heritage
Italian opera was formally recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2023, and Opera Italiana continues to honor and adapt this artistic tradition, making it relevant to modern audiences. The Lincoln Memorial concert presents not just the history of an art form, but its continued vibrancy and universal ability to connect.
Whether you are a veteran admirer of opera or a first-time listener, this performance offers an unmissable opportunity to experience its breathtaking artistry. Witness the talent of celebrated performers, marvel at the splendor of the Lincoln Memorial, and immerse yourself in an evening that celebrates the timeless allure of opera.