The fifth edition of the RLIOF Festival was a captivating celebration of music, featuring five unique concert evenings in Prishtina, along with a special tribute to Nexhmije Pagarusha that traveled to two other cities in Kosovo: Peja and Mitrovica.

Following this was the “Nexhmije Pagarusha” night, where Egyptian mezzo-soprano Gala Elhadidi performed iconic Albanian songs, joined by Kosovar artists Edona Reshitaj, Adhurim Grezda, and Arbëreshe. Accompanied by the Gent Rushi Group and their creative orchestrations of these timeless pieces, we paid tribute to the legendary Artist of Kosovo, Nexhmije Pagarusha.  

“Opera Night” – An operatic evening Prishtina will remember for a long time!   Rising star of the international opera scene, soprano Marigona Qerkezi, accompanied by pianist Jess Rucinski, delivered a captivating performance where virtuosity and emotion melted into one. From the elegance of Bellini to the vibrant rhythms of Bernstein, her voice filled every corner of the space.

Ensemble Evening – The star of the opera world, mezzo-soprano Anita Rachvelishvili performed for the first time in the region, within the framework of the Rame Lahaj International Opera Festival. Her passionate energy combined with her powerful voice, thrilled the audience with a stunning performance. With an incredibly fiery repertoire that made us dream under the melody of Gershwin, the unique rhythms of Piazzolla, and the arias from “Carmen” and “Samson et Dalila” that characterize Rachvelishvili’s free spirit, she also brought us the Georgian music that is so dear to her. Accompanied by the Rame Lahaj Festival Ensemble under the virtuoso conduct of maestro Nikoloz Rachveli, she gave an artistic experience never experienced before by the participating audience.

New Generation – After an intense week of work and dedication, yNew Generation evening marked the conclusion of the Masterclass led by Maestro Vargas and pianist Jess Rucinski, as part of the Rame Lahaj International Opera Festival. Young artists from around the world and undoubtedly talents from Albania and Kosovo, stayed in Prishtina to learn, explore and be inspired by the Maestro’s experience and mastery.

Gala Night “Rame Lahaj & Friends” – closed the jubilee edition of RLIOF with greatness, turning “Skënderbeu Square” into an open stage where opera conquered the hearts of thousands of participants. Extraordinary artists such as soprano Nino Machaidze and bass Dario Russo brought unforgettable emotions, under the direction of maestro Roberto Rizzi Brignoli and accompanied by the RTSH Symphony Orchestra. Our tenor Rame Lahaj gave us a special repertoire, from world arias to the most beloved Albanian songs, in an evening that was crowned with powerful emotions and endless ovations. One of the highlights was the presentation of the postage stamp with the portrait of Rame Lahaj by the Kosovo Post. Also present was Lorik Cana, who presented the “Udha” project for the Arbëresh heritage, while singer Angela Dell’Aquila performed “Moj e bukura More” in an unrepeatable duet with Lahaj. Under the motto “Dreams without borders, Opera without walls”, RLIOF showed that great art knows no borders, it unites people, inspires them and builds bridges for the future.