Theatre on the Square came alive with emotion, elegance and powerful storytelling as South African lyric soprano Sasa Yende delivered a breathtaking performance during her Arias of the Heart Friday lunch hour music concert.

The intimate lunchtime concert drew opera lovers and first-time audience members alike, offering a carefully curated programme featuring works by Bellini, Gounod, Menotti, Floyd, Buthelezi and Dvo?ák. Through every performance, Yende showcased not only her remarkable vocal ability but also her gift for connecting deeply with her audience.

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Yende said the programme was designed to take listeners on an emotional journey. “Audiences can expect a programme that is heartfelt, expressive and emotionally varied. The repertoire takes listeners on a journey through love, longing, hope, joy and reflection. It includes beloved operatic favourites alongside art songs, creating a programme that is both internationally recognised and proudly rooted in our own musical heritage. I wanted to present music that speaks directly to the heart, regardless of whether someone is an opera enthusiast or experiencing the genre for the first time.”

Her passion for opera began long before she stepped onto professional stages. “My love for music began at a young age through church and choral singing, where I discovered the power of the human voice to comfort, inspire and tell stories. Opera became a natural calling because it combines everything I love, which is music, language, drama and emotional expression. Every opportunity to perform has deepened my commitment to sharing this extraordinary art form with diverse audiences.”

Among the highlights of the afternoon was Yende’s performance of Io son l’umile ancella by Adriana Lecouvreur, a piece she said resonates deeply with her as an artist. “It is a deeply introspective aria that speaks about humility, purpose and my artistic role as a vessel for emotion and storytelling. What touches me the most is its quiet strength. It reminds me that as artists, we are not the centre of the story, but rather a channel through which something greater is expressed. Every time I sing it, I am reminded to surrender fully to the music and trust the honesty of the moment.”

Yende hopes performances such as Arias of the Heart will continue breaking down misconceptions about opera. “You do not need to understand every word or know the stories beforehand. Music communicates emotions that transcend language, and opera is ultimately about our shared human experiences. Allow yourself to listen, feel and be moved. There is truly something for everyone.”

Reflecting on her career, Yende described performing with the 10 South African Sopranos at Durban’s Playhouse Company in 2023 as a defining moment. “It changed the trajectory of my career positively.”
Looking to the future, she said, “I hope to contribute by making opera more accessible and representative of all South Africans. Through performances, outreach and thoughtful programming, I want to help break down the perception that opera is only for a select audience. I also believe in championing South African composers and creating opportunities for young artists to see themselves reflected on our stages.”

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As the audience rewarded her performance with warm applause and a standing ovation, Yende said she hoped everyone left the theatre carrying something special with them. “My greatest hope is that audiences leave feeling uplifted, inspired and emotionally connected. If someone walks away having discovered a new appreciation for opera, or simply feeling comforted, encouraged or moved by the music, then I will consider the concert a success. Arias of the Heart is an invitation to pause, reflect and experience the beauty of music that speaks across cultures and generations.”

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