Known as the Cultural Capital of Florida, it’s no surprise that Sarasota delivers opera that elicits an Italian encore.
In its 59th season, the Sarasota Opera has a long history of riveting performances, from well-known to more obscure operatic productions. Emotions run high in the 2017-18 Season’s Winter performances, with enthralling tales of first-sight, unrequited, and obligatory love bringing the stage to life through song.
Winter performances run from the beginning of February through to late March, offering both individual and season’s tickets, along with other subscription packages. From regularly scheduled operas to special performances, the Sarasota Opera has something for those who enjoy the occasional opera and true aficionados.
The Sarasota Opera House is located at 61 N. Pineapple Ave. in one of the most bustling Sarasota neighborhoods.
The 2017-18 Season: Winter
The winter season features artist showcases with classic and rarely-seen historical operas.
Manon Lescaut (Feb. 2 to Mar. 23, evening and matinee shows) – a true love story about a woman who leaves her true love for a wealthier man, only to realize love can’t easily be pushed to the wayside.
Classic, well-loved opera Carmen (Feb. 17 to Mar. 24, evening and matinee shows) takes place in Seville, recounting the tragic love story of a gypsy and a corporal. This piece has some of the most significant music in opera, including famous arias, “Habanera” and “Toreador.”
Opera lends itself to the great love stories of history, and Norma (Mar. 3 to 24, evening and matinee shows) is an archetype. This 19th century opera is set in ancient Rome, reciting the sad tale of love a priestess who chooses love – a Roman official – over her sacred vows, bearing two children. But soon his gaze shifts to another and Norma must choose between murder and sacrifice.
Tiefland (Mar. 10 to 25, evening and matinee shows), a popular opera in Germany and Austria, has only been produced twice in the United States. This 20th century opera tells the story of Marta, a poor girl who is forced to be the mistress of a wealthy landowner, and, when he marries a wealthy woman of status, married off to Pedro the shepherd. When Pedro finds out her secret, he does everything in his power to free Marta from the landowner’s grasp.
Concerts at Noon (Mar. 2 and 16, 12 p.m.) offers a unique opportunity to be among the first to witness up-and-coming talent as apprentice opera singers, soprano to bass, perform an hour-long show – perfect for a bit of culture at lunchtime.
Covers at Three (Mar. 9, 3 p.m.) allows spectators to hear the company’s studio artists, understudies of the season’s principal roles, sing a selection of this season’s operas.
Artists Choice Concert (Mar. 18, 7:30 p.m.) is a Sarasota tradition where artists have the chance to choose and perform their favorites, accompanied by piano.
For more information on the 2017-18 opera season, ticket sales, and season passes, visit: http://www.sarasotaopera.org/ or call the box office at (941) 328-1300.
Live and Play in Florida’s Cultural Capital
Sarasota is a utopia for artists and art lovers alike. The city’s economic success, growing job market, and appreciation for art, culture, and food are increasingly drawing people to the area not just for vacation, but to work and live.
In addition to the slew of new restaurants popping up around the city, the Sarasota Opera, Orchestra, and Ballet, along with a few major theatre companies and the annual Sarasota Film Festival and Festival of the Arts, are working to make this city a hub for all things culture.
We can help you learn more about how you can live, work, and play in Sarasota. Here at Schemmel Property Group, we provide you with all the local market information you need to make the best decision for you and your family.
Call us at 941-308-6497 to learn more about Sarasota real estate.
