A night of elegance, emotion, and exceptional artistry unfolded in the heart of Monaco during the 5th edition of the Grand Prix Maria Callas Monaco Gala & Awards. Held under the High Patronage of H.S.H. Prince Albert II of Monaco, this prestigious event has firmly established itself as an annual highlight in the cultural calendar of the Principality.
This year’s gala, with its noble focus on children, brought together a distinguished crowd for an unforgettable evening at the historic Salle Garnier of the Monte Carlo Opera. Organized by the event’s visionary President, Ioanna Efthimiou, the celebration was a grand tribute not only to classical music but also to generosity, innovation, and timeless icons.
Lifetime Achievement Award
The 2025 edition was especially poignant, with a moving homage to the legendary Dame Shirley Bassey, who received the Lifetime Achievement Music Award. Her presence graced the stage with emotion and humility, touching every heart in the audience.
The gala was hosted by Greek PR Manager and opera singer George Davlas, whose passion for Maria Callas lit up the room. In addition to guiding the evening with charm, Davlas also delivered a stirring operatic performance, seamlessly blending his role as both presenter and performer.
Serving as this year’s Honorary Ambassador was the striking Greek attorney Theodora Michaloliakou, who took to the stage to present awards to promising young classical talents from around the world—artists who captivated the audience with their remarkable performances.
The festivities spanned two memorable days. It began with an exclusive gourmet dinner at Café de Paris, one of Monaco’s most cherished landmarks. The following evening, April 25, saw the main Gala unfold in tribute to the ultimate diva, Maria Callas. The awards ceremony honoured not only excellence in music but also philanthropic and environmental achievements.
Joining Shirley Bassey among the honorees were Plácido Domingo Jr., son of the legendary tenor; Princess Olimpia Colonna Di Paliano, making a rare and enchanting appearance; philanthropist John Christodoulou; the esteemed humanitarian organization AMADE, founded by Princess Grace of Monaco; ocean advocate Fabien Cousteau; and maritime visionaries Nicolas Sarrut and Vasiliki Grigoratou.
The night culminated in a spellbinding opera concert featuring stars such as Plácido Domingo Jr., Victoria Bulieieva, Elena Kelessidi, Simone Piazzola, Greta Cipriani, Giuseppe Vaccaro, and once again, George Davlas.
Magical Moment
A truly magical moment came when the spirit of Maria Callas was brought back to the stage through an astonishing AI projection, leaving the audience breathless as the diva appeared to sing once more in the theatre that once echoed with her voice.
The 5th Grand Prix Maria Callas Monaco Gala & Awards proved to be more than a tribute—it was a celebration of legacy, artistry, and the enduring power of giving. A glittering evening destined to be remembered as one of the most captivating in the history of the event.
