Grand Hyatt Muscat and the European Business Persons Group, sponsored by Bank of Beirut,co-hosted an evening of Parisian theatre, comedic opera and great food.

Grand Hyatt’s Copacabana music venue was transformed into an authentic French bistro, reminiscent of those found nestled in the side streets of Paris, for a two-night spectacular of opera, the songs of the waif sparrow Edith Piaf and a menu of French flavours.

Directed by international opera director Hans Nieuwenhuis La Voix Humaine an opera monologue by French composer Poulenc, starring Michelle Mallinger, a young American-Dutch classic operatic singer, was performed on the 14th and 15th March 2017 at the Grand Hyatt Muscat. The opera narrates the jovial-to-dark story of the lead character’s life, whilst the audience is carried through an array of emotions that leave you laughing and sometimes crying at life’s emotional turns.

Director Hans Nieuwenhuis, first met operatic star Michelle Mallinger in 2012, when she auditioned for him and his International Orfeo Foundation. Captivated by her skills and natural charisma, Nieuwenhuis decided to cast her in La Voix Humaine, an international favourite and after a highly successful tour in the Netherlands. Mr.Nieuwenhuis, founder of The Opera Studio Nederland (1992-2011) in Amsterdam directed many operas worldwide and was appointed Knight of the Order of Orange-Nassau by HM Queen Beatrix of The Netherlands in April 2012 . This March the performance will take place in Oman, together with the support of the  European Business Persons Group, Grand Hyatt Muscat and headline sponsor, Bank of Beirut Oman.

"I have worked in opera and show business - on and off stage - for 35 years and mounted more then a hundred operas around the world. But to this day, Michelle Mallinger is one of my greatest artistic discoveries yet.” says Nieuwenhuis of his leading lady.

“Bank of Beirut is delighted to offer something artistic to the French speaking community in Oman. With La Voix Humaine, we hope to bring a uniquely Parisian experience to Muscat.” Remy Zambarakji, CEO of Bank of Beirut.