20th Anniversary of the Velvet Revolution In Prague

Various commemorative events marked the 20th anniversary of the return of freedom to the Czech lands in 1989.

Former president Vaclav Havel organized and hosted a festive concert at the St. Anna Church in Prague. Havel’s Address was inspirational and optimistic about the future of the country. Many famous artists contributed to the program, for example Joan Baez, Lou Reed, Suzanne Vega, Mick Jagger, etc. The performance of the leading soprano of the Metropolitan Opera Renee Fleming was brilliant. She sang the Moon Aria from Dvorak’s opera Rusalka, and Milada’s aria from Smetana’s Dalibor. All artists were accompanied by the Prague Philharmonic Orchestra under Jiri Belohlavek.

Several internationally known leaders and diplomats sent greetings, e.g. Adam Michnik, Michael Gorbacov, Angela Merkel, and others.

At the end all those present sang the song “Oh, Freedom…” It was a memorable and very moving experience for everyone who attended the concert.