What does a soprano do on a garbage truck? The unusual (and very useful) initiative between the streets of Medellín

In the streets of Medellínan unexpected harmony spreads to the passage of garbage trucks: it is the lyrical item of Estefanía Palacioone soprano With over 15 years of career in the world of work. With elegance and passion, Estefanía chose to bring his art out of the theatertransforming urban everyday life into a unique cultural experience.

This initiative, Promoted by the Secretariat of Culture of Medellín In collaboration with EMVARIAAS, the municipal waste management company, aims to raise awareness of citizens on the importance of recycling and correct waste management. On board the truck, often in evening dress and heels, the singer interprets famous work arias, including songs from the Carmen of Bizet, surprising passers -by and transforming the moment of waste collection into a traveling show.

Santa Lucía, a popular neighborhood in the city, is one of the places where this “Urban ópera“It was more successful. Between spontaneous applause, viral videos on social networks and improvised choirs from the windows, the project has been able to capture the attention of young and old, making the ecological message more direct and memorable. Not only that: through its performances, Estefanía reminds the residents correct days for the exposure of wastetransforming practical information into a poetic moment.

An initiative that divided

The initiative has aroused conflicting reactions. While many praise the idea for its ability to bring art closer to the communitysome critics consider it a “trivialization “of lyrical language. However, Estefanía firmly defends the value of his project, stating that the work, to be alive, he must know how to dialogue with the present and get out of elitist contexts.

Medellín has a long musical and lyrical tradition, hosting prestigious events such as International Opera Festival And welcoming world -renowned artists. Projects like that of Estefanía consolidate the city as a point of reference not only for culture, but also for thesocial innovation and the environmental consciousness. With his voice, the soprano not only enchants, but educationshowing that art can transform the city, one road at a time.