Jonas Kaufmann once again proves why he’s considered one of the greatest tenors of our time with his hauntingly beautiful rendition of E lucevan le stelle at the Arena di Verona.

As his voice soared through the night air, every drop of sweat on his brow was a silent testament to the raw intensity and emotional depth he poured into each phrase. His portrayal of Cavaradossi — trembling on the edge of life and death — was not just sung, it was lived.

 

The audience could feel his breath shorten, his soul crack open with every note, making it impossible to look away. It’s not just talent — it’s devotion, artistry, and a kind of brilliance that commands respect and awe.

Jonas Kaufmann Shocks with “E lucevan le stelle” Performance at Arena di Verona: Sweat, Tears, and the Magic of Sublime Art

Tosca 2009 - Jonas Kaufmann, Emily Magee - 9 - YouTube

Verona, Italy – During a historic night of music at Arena di Verona, Jonas Kaufmann took the audience by surprise with his performance of E lucevan le stelle from Puccini’s opera Tosca. The performance was part of a summer extravaganza at the famous ancient arena, attracting thousands of classical music lovers from around the world.

Watch the performance for yourself to appreciate the memorable moment!

What made the night special was not only Kaufmann’s mesmerizing voice, but also his breathtaking immersion. Under the bright stage lights and the Italian night sky, drops of sweat rolled down his face like haunting pauses of an artist burning himself out for a role.

Puccini - Tosca 3 akt «E lucevan le stelle» (Jonas Kaufmann) 2009 - YouTube

Jonas didn’t just sing — he lived every moment, conveying Cavaradossi’s pain and final hope with a voice rich in emotion, sharpness, and torment. The audience held their breath several times, and many were moved to tears.

This performance is considered one of the new peaks of Jonas Kaufmann’s career, and is going viral on social media with praise from critics and fans worldwide. With undeniable class, Jonas Kaufmann continues to affirm his position as a living legend of world opera.