In 2019, Pretty Yende watched Notre Dame Cathedral go up in flames from her Paris apartment window.
South African opera singer Pretty Yende, who witnessed Notre Dame Cathedral go up in flames from her Paris apartment, will perform at the reopening of the historic French cathedral this weekend.
“I remember actually being in Paris when the church burned down,” Yende told SABC News.
In April 2019, Notre Dame Cathedral was engulfed in flames, making headlines around the world.
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Notre Dame Cathedral is on fire
The fire destroyed the cathedral's spire, weakened the structure, and left a large hole in the roof. Hundreds of firefighters worked through the night to extinguish the fire.
“When it happened, I could really see it through the window. I literally felt the pain and felt the whole atmosphere change,” the opera singer declared.
“You see how important the church is, not only in Paris, France, but also for Christians, and I'm a Christian too. It was very, very…like a lump in my throat,” Yende said, expressing his pain. .
No casualties or injuries were reported, except for some reports that three emergency workers were injured while extinguishing the fire.
The cause of the fire is still unknown, but it is believed that a short circuit or a cigarette may have ignited the fire.
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large scale reopening
The reopening ceremony for Notre Dame Cathedral will be held on Saturday and Sunday and will be attended by about 50 heads of state, including US President-elect Donald Trump.
Other artists scheduled include Chinese pianist Lang Lang, cellist Yo-Yo Ma and Benin-born singer Angelique Kidjo.
Performing on the big international stage is nothing new for the soprano born in Mukondo (formerly known as Pete Retief). In 2023, Yende performed at the coronation of King Charles of England.
Also in 2023, Yende was appointed as the World Health Organization's (WHO) Ambassador for Arts and Health.
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I went inside Notre Dame Cathedral for the first time.
The Europe-based singer said he has not yet been inside the church, either before or after the fire. He excitedly talked about his first experience in a cathedral.
“You'd think in Pears' memorial that I would have gone too, but Notre Dame is a place I've never been,” she said.
“What a special way to experience Notre Dame Cathedral through this incredible renovation. We are truly excited and happy to be able to experience it this way.”
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