Radojka Šverko and Zdenka Kovačiček Together on Stage in Split
The 'Evening of Divas' concert at the 72nd Split Summer brings a rare meeting of two legends of the domestic music scene, accompanied by the Big Band and Blues Band.
The 'Evening of Divas' concert at the 72nd Split Summer brings a rare meeting of two legends of the domestic music scene, accompanied by the Big Band and Blues Band.
Fans of exceptional vocals and timeless musical interpretations have reason to celebrate. As part of the 72nd Split Summer, on Thursday, August 13, 2026, at 9 PM, a concert titled "Evening of Divas" will be held at the playground of the Tourism and Hospitality School in Split. This unique event marks the grand finale of this year's concert program of the festival, bringing together true giants of the Croatian music scene in one place.
The central moment of the evening will be a joint performance by two undisputed ladies of domestic music, Radojka Šverko and Zdenka Kovačiček. Their meeting on the same stage is a true rarity and undoubtedly one of the most attractive musical moments of this year's festival summer in Dalmatia. The audience can expect a musical journey through jazz, chanson, soul, and blues, celebrating the power and splendor of the female voice.
Throughout the evening, the audience will be guided by Arijana Čulina, who will connect the performers with her recognizable humor and relaxed approach, creating a pleasant atmosphere. The program will open with sophisticated jazz performances by Sara Brodarić Šegvić and Željko Brodarić Jappa. After them, Zrinka Milić will take the stage, followed by Antonella Malis, who has been entrusted with as many as seven vocal numbers. Nina Bakić is responsible for the arrangements of the entire program, while the powerful musical accompaniment throughout the evening will be provided by the Big Band under the direction of Vladimir Babin and the Blues Band.
Radojka Šverko, born in Pazin, is an artist whose name has symbolized top-tier interpretation and uncompromising quality for decades. Her recognizable velvet alto and affinity for demanding repertoire have brought her international fame. A key turning point in her career came in 1969 when she won the festival in Porto de la Cruz. This success opened the doors to world stages, she performed in Tokyo, Los Angeles, Madrid, Seoul, Athens, and Rio de Janeiro. Upon returning to Croatia, she continued to rack up successes at domestic festivals, including the Split Festival, Zagrebfest, Melodies of Istria and Kvarner, and the Opatija Festival.
Zdenka Kovačiček, often called the first lady of jazz and the best jazz-rock vocalist, is a charismatic singer who, throughout her long career, never stops pushing genre boundaries. Her rich performance journey includes appearances across Europe, Russia, and America, and she is known for her distinctive voice, powerful interpretation, and masterful improvisations. Even after decades on the scene, she continues to explore new musical expressions, making her meeting with Radojka Šverko on the same stage an event not to be missed.
Tickets for this musical spectacle are available at the HNK Split box office and through online sales.
