A heartfelt Zarzuela tribute meets a masked electronic carnival
Starlite Occident 2024 hosted a night of powerful contrasts with performances by Plácido Domingo and Masquerade by Claptone. From the deep emotion of Spanish operetta to the euphoria of sophisticated house, the evening showcased the festival’s unique ability to unite musical extremes in one seamless experience.
The legendary tenor returned to La Cantera for the fourth time, following his appearances in 2015, 2021 and 2022. At 83, he displayed commanding vocals and timeless charisma in a moving tribute to his parents, both prominent Zarzuela performers. “I’m happy to be here again, celebrating my parents’ music. I hope you enjoy it very much,” he expressed sincerely.
Plácido Domingo’s “Noche Española” was a journey through the most emblematic works of Zarzuela and Spanish opera, joined on stage by soprano Serena Sáenz. Excerpts from “La boda de Luis Alonso”, “La del soto del Parral”, “Los Gavilanes”, “Luisa Fernanda”, “El Sombrero de Tres Picos” and “Doña Francisquita” came alive in a performance brimming with passion, heritage and memory.
A deeply emotional moment arrived with his rendition of “Luche la fe por el triunfo”, from Luisa Fernanda, a role made famous by his mother, Pepita Embil. Through this piece, Plácido paid tribute to his family legacy, bringing to life the artistic heritage that shaped him.
In the audience were notable guests including actor Óscar Martínez and Marina Borenzstein, Begoña Trapote, Monika Bacardi and Ivonne Armant, the tenor’s granddaughter. All bore witness to an evening of emotion and artistry with a distinctly Spanish essence.
The celebration continued at the Sessions stage with “Masquerade” by Claptone, an immersive experience inspired by the Venetian carnival. Hidden behind his signature golden mask, the German DJ and producer delivered a powerful journey through techno, house and deep house with a vibrant, liberating and hedonistic set.
The open-air dance floor transformed into a modern-day carnival, where fantasy and creative freedom surrounded guests in an electrifying atmosphere. Once again, Starlite Occident bridged the classical and the cutting edge with masterful contrast.