Argentine tenor Santiago Ballerini shines in El orgullo de quererte, a new zarzuela with music by Javier Carmena and a libretto by Felipe Nieto, which premiered on September 11 at the Teatros del Canal. The production featured the ORCAM orchestra, conducted by Alondra de la Parra, and stage direction by Albert Boadella and Martina Cabanas.
Ballerini has triumphed in his role as Tadeo, one of the two male leads in this zarzuela —the first in history to explore an openly gay theme— set in Madrid’s lively Chueca district. The tenor shares the stage with baritone Germán Olvera (Alonso), together earning the enthusiastic acclaim of both the press and the audience.
Critics have praised Ballerini’s lyricism, flawless technique, and emotional depth in a vocally demanding role. With El orgullo de quererte, Ballerini reaffirms his versatility and commitment to innovative projects that broaden the scope of the vocal repertoire.
In the coming months, the tenor will continue his international schedule with new opera productions, recitals, and concerts across Europe and the Americas, further consolidating a career in full bloom.
What the press is saying:
“Among the singers, all splendid, the Argentine tenor Santiago Ballerini and the Mexican baritone Germán Olvera stood out. Both, with attractive and expressive voices, took on the most extensive and complex characters with total commitment, facing a demanding orchestration.” — Opera World
“In this gay romance, the young and tender Tadeo is a tenor role that Santiago Ballerini masters to perfection; it’s a delightful character, and his voice and interpretation grow sublimely from beginning to end.” — Shangay
“Santiago Ballerini brings vocal elegance and remarkable acting ability. His phrasing is clear, his stage presence commanding yet approachable. In the main male role, his performance is as believable as it is moving.” — Doble Act
