The opera gala stands as a festival highlight, presenting a selection of the most beloved arias and ensembles in the operatic repertoire. A distinguished ensemble of Portuguese soloists takes the stage: soprano Rafaela Albuquerque, mezzo-soprano Cátia Moreso, tenor Marco Alves dos Santos, and baritone Luís Rodrigues. Accompanied by the National Theatre of São Carlos Opera Choir and the Portuguese Symphony Orchestra, the evening presents an immersive musical programme. Under the baton of maestro Antonio Pirolli, the vocalists, chorus, and orchestra unite in a display of artistry, paying homage to the operatic tradition.