Opera in unexpected places - The Amazon Rainforest: Exploring the history of opera in Manaus, Brazil - home to the Festival Amazonas de Ópera.

The article focuses on the history and revival of opera in Manaus, Brazil, centered on the Teatro Amazonas and the Festival Amazonas de Ópera (FAO). Built during the rubber boom in the late 19th century, the Teatro Amazonas is a neoclassical opera house renowned for its opulence and remote rainforest location. After a period of decline following the rubber bust, the theatre was restored and reopened in 1990, leading to the establishment of FAO in 1998, which has since promoted both traditional and Brazilian contemporary operas. FAO, fully government-funded and accessible to the public, has contributed to the cultural revitalization of Manaus and is noted for its diverse programming and support of Brazilian composers.