Classical music lovers should definitely mark their calendars for the Portoguraro Festival (formerly Estate Musicale). It takes place annually between July and September. In addition to beautiful music in a Mediterranean setting, visitors can discover not only classical masterpieces but also remarkable new talents.
It was a long time ago - back in 2005 (under the theme "Vienna"), Rusalina Genova Mochukova (soprano) dazzled the audience with arias from *Don Giovanni* and *The Marriage of Figaro*.
Another highlight of a rather unusual kind at the time was Haydn's "Fireworks Music," accompanied by subtle pyrotechnics, which even the young audience members - literally moved by the thunder - treated with due respect. All in all, a special and diverse festival that one should not merely plan to attend.
While the festival originally (then still known as Estate Musicale) took place in the enclosed courtyard of the Collegio, it has since moved its performances to the center of Portogruaro. A fortunate decision.
Ticket prices range from €8 to €20 depending on the category; season tickets are also available (~€60).
