Rock at the Opera: Where Power Meets Passion
When the worlds of rock and opera collide, sparks are bound to fly—and Rock at the Opera is proof that those sparks can light up an entire stage. The show, starring Panamanian vocalist and producer Tonny Kenneth, is more than a concert; it’s a sonic experience where the intensity of rock and the grandeur of opera blend into something entirely new. Backed by a powerhouse live band and presented at Puerto Vallarta’s stunning Coco Cabaret, Rock at the Opera will take the stage for one unforgettable night only on Saturday, November 15 at 7:00 PM. The production reimagines timeless classics from The Rolling Stones, Queen, Metallica, Kiss, Schubert, Puccini, and more.
“It’s not opera. It’s not rock. It’s both—and it’s unforgettable,” Kenneth promises. And from the way he speaks about the project, you can tell it’s deeply personal.
A Dream Born from Symphonic Fire
“Ever since I was a teenager, I’ve always been fascinated by European bands,” Tonny says, reflecting on the spark that ignited Rock at the Opera. “There was one genre that absolutely blew my mind: symphonic metal. That powerful mix of operatic vocals, distorted guitars, and orchestral arrangements completely captivated me. That’s where my passion for that type of music was born. I always dreamed of creating a concert-style show that could merge rock and classical music—and now, I’m beyond excited to finally make it happen!”
This dream has been decades in the making. From his early days fronting Panama’s award-winning alternative rock band Blessnight to his celebrated solo performances in Puerto Vallarta, Kenneth has constantly sought ways to push boundaries—vocally, musically, and emotionally.
Reimagining the Classics
For Tonny, crafting the setlist for Rock at the Opera was as much about emotion as it was about musical selection. “I have always wanted to connect deeply with the audience—that’s what I love the most,” he shares. “But this time my goal is to take that connection even further.”
He carefully chose songs that bridge eras and genres, reinventing legendary rock anthems by The Rolling Stones, Queen, Metallica, and Aerosmith in lush, symphonic arrangements. “The show also includes beautiful opera arias and a very special collaboration with an opera singer for one unforgettable performance,” he adds.
The result is a breathtaking blend of nostalgia and innovation—a setlist that unites fans of both classical and contemporary music under one roof, where guitar solos and arias coexist in perfect harmony.
Finding His True Voice
Tonny Kenneth is no stranger to versatility. Over the years, he’s performed tributes ranging from Prince: Let’s Go Crazy to Disco Inferno and The Royals, each showcasing his ability to adapt his powerhouse vocals to different genres. But Rock at the Opera, he says, feels like home.
“It has definitely been a challenge moving through so many different genres,” he admits. “I started at Incanto, performing in the piano bar and later doing my first solo show, Sugar & Spice, right before the pandemic. After that came tributes to Prince, disco nights, and many other styles. But this time, I feel I have truly found my place.”
He recalls a turning point: “I used to be afraid of singing in the operatic register until one day I decided to break that wall. I performed an aria during one of my shows, and the audience loved it. That moment changed everything for me.”
Magic in the Making
Even for a seasoned performer like Tonny, the first rehearsal of a brand-new show can be nerve-wracking. “I will never forget the first rehearsal! I was very nervous,” he laughs. “Back in Panama, I used to sing in rock bands, and I remember how hard rehearsals could be because managing a band is never easy. But working with Edgar, Beto, Jorge, and Jared was completely different from anything I had experienced before.”
That session turned into a defining moment. “I was impressed by their level of professionalism and musicianship. That very first rehearsal went perfectly, and I knew right then that I was on the right path this time,” he recalls with pride.
A Journey Through Emotion
What can audiences expect when the lights dim and Rock at the Opera begins? According to Tonny, they’re in for an emotional ride.
“The mission is to make people experience something truly different,” he says. “This show is an emotional journey where the audience will sing along, feel goosebumps with the melodic pieces, maybe even shed a tear during the arias—and of course, they will dance too. Above all, I want them to leave inspired, uplifted, and full of energy.”
With his voice moving effortlessly between genres, Kenneth creates a bridge between two musical worlds that rarely meet—and he does so with heart.
Puerto Vallarta: The Muse Behind the Music
Tonny credits much of his growth to his adopted home of Puerto Vallarta, where his creativity and resilience were tested—and ultimately reborn.
“Living in Puerto Vallarta has been an incredible journey,” he reflects. “When I first arrived, I was completely lost in every sense, but I had a dream: to become a recognized singer here. I started performing in hotels, singing and dancing, even though I had to learn both choreography and English from scratch. I had experience before, but show business here is on another level.”
Over time, the city’s vibrant energy reshaped his artistry. “Along the way, I discovered new genres, new influences, and made friends who inspired me to explore different vocal techniques and grow as an artist. Every single day, this beautiful and ever-evolving town teaches me something new.”
From Darkness to Light
Behind the charisma and the talent lies a story of resilience. Tonny is open about the personal challenges he’s faced—experiences that have shaped his art and his outlook on life.
“My real name is Juan Antonio Villarreal Bianco, but everyone calls me Tony—I added an ‘n’ just to make it fun,” he laughs. “Life in Puerto Vallarta has not always been easy. When I arrived, I was just a naïve kid who thought he knew everything.”
He pauses before continuing. “As I have shared openly before, I went through some very dark years, including an accidental overdose that nearly cost me my life. That experience later inspired one of my songs, ‘Beautiful Nothing.’ You learn from the bad times, and I had to learn the hard way. Today, I see life from a completely different perspective, and I love it because I have given myself the chance to change, to inspire, and to do things right.”
That spirit of rebirth radiates through every note of Rock at the Opera. “This show means the world to me,” he says. “It represents my true essence and a dream I have carried for years. Do not miss this musical experience—I promise it will be something truly special.”
A Stage Worthy of the Sound
The show finds its home at Coco Cabaret, Vallarta’s newest and most exciting entertainment venue. Created by the team behind the legendary Palm Cabaret & Bar, Coco Cabaret features cutting-edge lighting, a massive sound system, and three LED video screens that immerse the audience in every beat and lyric. With stylish seating, signature cocktails, and the warm hospitality the Palm is known for, it’s the perfect setting for Tonny’s genre-defying vision.
With its soaring ceilings and vibrant atmosphere, Coco Cabaret is poised to become the beating heart of Vallarta’s entertainment scene—and Rock at the Opera will be one of its brightest highlights.
A Grand Encore Awaits
From Panama to Puerto Vallarta, from pain to triumph, Tonny Kenneth’s story mirrors the music he performs—bold, emotional, and beautifully human. Rock at the Opera is not just a concert; it’s a declaration of passion, resilience, and the power of reinvention.
Audiences can experience Rock at the Opera for one unforgettable night only—Saturday, November 15 at 7:00 PM at Coco Cabaret.
When the curtain rises and the first chords strike, audiences won’t just hear the music—they’ll feel the story behind it.