Venezuelan soprano Samuel Mariño to star in Gluck Festival's 2026 revival of Paride ed Elena
The Gluck Festival in Fürth will showcase Venezuelan sopranist Samuel Mariño as its star performer in 2026. The event aims to revive the composer’s works with emotional intensity and dramatic power. Mariño’s rare natural soprano voice makes him a standout choice for the role of Paride in Paride ed Elena. Christoph Willibald Gluck’s Paride ed Elena first premiered in 1770 with a libretto by Ranieri de’ Calzabigi. The festival stays true to history by casting a male singer for Paride, just as in the original production. Mariño, whose voice remained in the soprano range after puberty, brings a unique timbre to Baroque repertoire.
Mariño has overcome early scepticism about his career to perform at top opera houses worldwide. His casting defies traditional operatic norms, offering a fresh take on the role. Alongside him, Roberta Mameli, Vanessa Waldhart, and Soula Parassidis will also take the stage. The performance on Sunday, May 10, 2026, will feature Cantus Thuringia and the Akademie für Alte Musik Berlin. Conductor Michael Hofstetter will lead the ensemble, blending historical authenticity with modern artistry.
The festival highlights Gluck’s music as a vibrant, evolving art form. Mariño’s participation underscores its commitment to dramatic depth and innovation. The event promises a rare opportunity to experience Baroque opera as it was originally intended.
