On the evening of April 12, 2025, the SunBet Arena in Pretoria transformed into a sanctuary of musical excellence as Andrea Bocelli graced the stage for his 30th Anniversary Tour. The atmosphere was electric, with anticipation hanging in the air like a delicate thread of music waiting to be played. As Bocelli made his entrance, the entire arena rose in a standing ovation, a testament to the profound impact he has had over three decades. This spontaneous gesture set the tone for an evening that would be etched in the memories of all present.
In a masterful beginning, the concert commenced with a selection of operatic masterpieces, showcasing Bocelli’s unparalleled vocal prowess. Opening with Giuseppe Verdi’s, La Donna è Mobile from Rigoletto, Bocelli’s voice resonated with clarity and strength, defying his 66 years. The transition to Di Quella Pira from Verdi’s Il Trovatore further demonstrated his command over the tenor repertoire, delivering each note with precision and emotion.
The stage then welcomed the radiant soprano Mariam Battistelli, who captivated the audience with her rendition of Charles Gounod’s, Ah! Je Veux Vivre from Roméo et Juliette. Despite a minor wardrobe mishap, Battistelli’s performance remained flawless, her voice soaring effortlessly, embodying the youthful exuberance of Juliet.
The synergy between Bocelli and Battistelli was unmistakable as they united for Franz Lehár’s, Tace il Labbro and Vittorio Monti’s, Czardas. Their interplay was a vocal dance, weaving a narrative that transcended linguistic barriers. Battistelli’s playful demeanour complemented Bocelli’s contemplative delivery, creating a duet that was both visually and audibly enchanting.
The concert’s first half concluded with Verdi’s, La Mia Letizia Infondere from I Lombardi and Puccini’s, O Soave Fanciulla from La Bohème, culminating in the spirited Brindisi from Verdi’s La Traviata. Each piece was executed with a finesse which left us in awe of the performers’ artistry.
The second half of the concert ventured into a diverse array of musical genres. Bocelli’s rendition of Mamma by Cesare Andrea Bixio evoked a nostalgia note, while Funiculì, Funiculà by Luigi Denza and ’O Surdato ’Nnammurato by Enrico Cannio brought a lively Neapolitan flair to the evening.
A standout moment was violinist Rusanda Panfili’s performance of Hans Zimmer’s, Davy Jones, He’s a Pirate from Pirates of the Caribbean. Her technical mastery and emotive playing captivated the audience, culminating in a collective cheer as she reached the iconic melody.
Amy Manford’s interpretation of James Horner’s, My Heart Will Go On displayed her versatility as a classical crossover artist. Her subsequent duet with Bocelli on Can’t Help Falling in Love by Luigi Creatore was a truly heartfelt rendition of this well-known classic.
The evening progressed with Joaquín Rodrigo’s, En Aranjuez Con Tu Amor, Agustín Lara’s, Granada, and Francesco Sartori’s, Canto della Terra, each piece highlighting Bocelli’s ability to traverse musical styles while maintaining emotional depth.
As the concert drew to a close, the audience’s fervent applause beckoned Bocelli back to the stage. He responded with a stirring performance of Time to Say Goodbye, followed by the powerful Nessun Dorma from Puccini’s Turandot. The latter moved many to tears, a testament to the profound emotional connection Bocelli fosters through his music.
This concert was not only a celebration of Bocelli’s illustrious career but also a reflection of his philanthropic endeavours. The Andrea Bocelli Foundation (ABF), established in 2011, continues to empower communities through education, healthcare and cultural initiatives. The foundation’s presence at the event underscored the integration of artistry and altruism that defines Bocelli’s legacy.
In conjunction with the tour, Bocelli released the “Duets – 30th Anniversary” album, featuring collaborations with renowned artists such as Celine Dion, Ed Sheeran and Sarah Brightman. This compilation serves as a testament to Bocelli’s enduring influence and his commitment to musical collaboration.
Andrea Bocelli’s performance at the SunBet Arena was more than a concert; it was a masterclass in musical expression, a celebration of a storied career and a beacon of hope through philanthropy. The evening left an indelible mark on all who attended – a reminder of the transcendent power of music.