Czech Center New York put together a special evening in commemoration of Soňa Červená, renowned Czech opera singer and actress who passed away earlier this year at the age of 97.
Opening remarks were delivered by Miroslav Konvalina, director of the Czech Center New York, followed by an academic perspective from musicologist and NYU professor Michael Beckerman. Mezzo-soprano Markéta Cukrová and pianist Isabel Keleti performed some of Červená's most famous arias. The documentary "Červená" by Czech filmmaker Olga Sommerová was also presented, offering a glimpse into the life of this extraordinary woman. Anežka Pokorná later recited parts of Olga Sommerová's speech from the final farewell held at the National Theater in Prague.
Prof. Beckerman had this to say about Soňa Červená: "It's worth noting that Sona Červená is a wonderful example of late-life creativity, successfully and energetically pursuing new projects well into her 90’s, and bringing to them incredibly special qualities. And this is interesting to keep in mind these days when anyone over 80 is suspected of having Alzheimers. While there are no players in the National Basketball Association over 60, the fact is that in the arts, science, politics, philosophy, and many more fields, life activity, creativity, and action is no anomaly."
Arias performed by Markéta Cukrová: W. A. Mozart: Voi che sapete / Cherubino's Aria from "The Marriage of Figaro" G. Rossini: Assisa a un pie d’un salice / Desdemona's Aria from "Otello" J. Červený: Cigán (A Gipsy) / a song written by Soňa Červená's father
Photo credit © Anežka Pokorná and Czech Center New York
