Working on the Role: Irina Churilova in "La Gioconda"

On July 3, 2026, the premiere of Amilcare Ponchielli's opera ""La Gioconda"" took place on the New Stage of the Mariinsky Theatre. Irina Churilova, a soprano of the Mariinsky Theatre, prepared for one of the most complex and dramatic roles in the repertoire for dramatic soprano — the title part of La Gioconda. This is a role that demands from the artist not only outstanding vocal ability but also considerable acting talent to convey the entire spectrum of the heroine's emotions, from boundless love for Enzo Grimaldo to tragic self-sacrifice. Irina Churilova — a brilliant singer who has conquered the world's leading opera stages — sharing her working process and the unique experience of participating in ""La Gioconda"".