A Capetonian is setting social media alight with his incredible voice while singing Opera!
Nicolene Smith was having lunch with her parents at “Ons Huisie” in Bloubergstrand when Mapoyi Mthetho walked alongside the restaurant and serenaded the guests singing Nessun Dorma.
“Nessun dorma” (None shall sleep) is an aria from the final act of Giacomo Puccini’s opera Turandot and one of the best-known tenor arias in all opera. It is sung by Calaf, il principe ignoto (the unknown prince), who falls in love at first sight with the beautiful but cold Princess Turandot. However, any man who wishes to wed Turandot must first answer her three riddles; if he fails, he will be beheaded. In the aria, Calaf expresses his triumphant assurance that he will win the princess.
Although “Nessun dorma” has long been a staple of operatic recitals, Luciano Pavarotti popularized the piece beyond the opera world in the 1990s following his performance of it for the 1990 World Cup, which captivated a global audience. Both Pavarotti and Plácido Domingo released singles of the aria that topped charts in the United Kingdom, and it appeared on the best selling classical album of all time, The Three Tenors in Concert.
Smith immediately took to Facebook to share the incredible talent… and hopefully get Mthetho the exposure he deserves.
“So I had lunch with my parentals at Ons Huisie in Bloubergstrand this afternoon and then this happened!!
Having been so privileged to have grown up in a house where all genres of music are appreciated, I feel it my duty to record and share.
What a voice, humble and appreciative personality. Let’s get Mapoyi Mthetho on a stage!! I won’t just put a tip into his hat next time, I’ll pay for a proper front row seat!
His number is 071 378 7333.”
Watch the incredible video below:
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