In a good mood with serious tones: star tenor Rolando Villazón Photo: Getty Images for German AIDS Foundation
By Martina Hafner
The charity event was on hiatus for three years and is now back. On Saturday, visitors to the Deutsche Oper experienced a colorful classical program moderated by Rolando Villazón.
She was really missing: After a three-year pandemic break, the gala in aid of the German Aids Foundation took place again at the Deutsche Oper.
And Berlin’s society came in great attire! Among the guests were Margot Friedländer (102), bachelorette Sharon Battiste (31), Berlin’s ruler Kai Wegner (51).
Pop star Leony on the stage of the German Opera Photo: Getty Images for German AIDS Foundation
Fashion czar Harald Glööckler (58): “AIDS is still an issue, anyone can get it!” Moderator Rolando Villazón explained that the AIDS Foundation has raised 8.9 million euros with the gala since 1994 and supports those affected worldwide: “So donate diligently, diligently, super diligently!”
Actress Mariella Ahrens taking a selfie with Lucia von Faber-Castell Photo: Getty Images for German AIDS Foundation
The highlight of the stage program: the performance of the children’s choir of the Deutsche Oper with a scene from “Carmen”, after which Villazón humorously interviewed 12-year-old Tilda. And the aria “La mamma morta” from Andrea Chénier sung by soprano Saioa Hernandez.
There was a standing ovation for Israeli singer Hila Fahima. One of many great voices of the evening.