Mezzosoprano Fanny Lora Performs Mano a Mano: Arias in Dialogue in Massachusetts

Dominican mezzo-soprano Fanny Lora performed “Mano a Mano: Arias in Dialogue” on June 6 at the historic Holliston Town Hall in Massachusetts. The concert featured a blend of Italian and French operatic arias, zarzuela, and concert songs, including world-premiere arrangements created by Laura Intravia and members of the Mano a Mano Ensemble.

Why is this repertoire significant for U.S. audiences?

The performance aimed to highlight the diversity of Hispanic lyrical music. According to the event details, this specific repertoire remains underrepresented in concert halls across the United States.

By weaving together different languages and styles, Lora explored themes of identity, nostalgia, passion, and love. Bienvenida Feliz, director of Fundoarcu, described the performance as a “magical evening” and praised Lora’s interpretation of “Cielito Lindo” as masterful.

Did You Know? The program featured world-premiere arrangements specifically crafted for this occasion by arranger Laura Intravia and the Mano a Mano Ensemble.

Who collaborated on the production?

The event integrated several Dominican artists based in Boston. Visual artist Yoleidy Ortega provided original illustrations, while designer Melina Cortés-Nmili created the costumes.

Institutional support came from the Office of the Ministry of Culture of the Dominican Republic in New England/Boston. Led by Yadires Nova-Salcedo, the office served as a primary sponsor to facilitate an exchange between cultural leaders and the community.

Expert Insight: Samantha Carter notes that centering underrepresented Hispanic classical traditions within established venues like the Holliston Town Hall creates a necessary bridge between traditional European opera and regional cultural identities.

What is the Mano a Mano series?

Lora created the “Mano a Mano” series to examine the intersections between Hispanic classical music and other musical traditions. The initiative seeks to make artistic experiences more accessible to the general public.

Nana | Fanny Lora, Mezzo-soprano | Guitarist: Dave McLellan | Composer: Manuel de Falla

The series earned official state recognition in March 2026. Lora and the Ensemble received an Official Recognition of Congratulations at the Massachusetts State House during Creative Advocacy Day.

What may happen next for the ensemble?

Given the state recognition and institutional backing from the Ministry of Culture, the Mano a Mano Ensemble could potentially expand its series of cultural dialogues. Future initiatives may likely focus on further integrating educational programs and community-based musical exchanges.

Frequently Asked Questions

What genres of music were performed at the concert?
The program included Italian and French operatic arias, zarzuela, and concert songs.

Who is Fanny Lora?
Fanny Lora is a Dominican mezzo-soprano, music educator, and the artistic director of the Mano a Mano Ensemble.

Which organization sponsored the event?
The Office of the Ministry of Culture of the Dominican Republic in New England/Boston, under the leadership of Yadires Nova-Salcedo, was a primary sponsor.

How do you think bringing underrepresented musical traditions to local town halls changes the community’s cultural experience?