Haute Event: Timeless Opera Reinvented at the Florida Grand Opera

The Opera has exemplified elegance and sophistication, however; it seems as society has changed, so has interest in opera as entertainment. After attending the opening night of “Don Giovanni” last weekend, it seems whomever said opera was a dying art form has never been to a performance by The Florida Grand Opera.

The set design itself was something to be admired–oversized and sometimes gothic looking backdrops, subtlety contrasted with lighthearted comedy and bright colors. Set to Mozart, this opera tells a story of a sexually forward character for the day who abuses everyone he encounters with his cunning wit and promiscuity.

The Florida Grand Opera is helping bring opera into the digital age with a subtitle screen above the stage, making the performances comprehensible and allowing patrons to appreciate the humor and story line as well as the magnificent music.

The evening segued into the After Opera Cocktail Party located in the Bombay Sapphire Lounge.  This event was attended by donors as well as some of the cast and representatives from the Florida Grand Opera. Patrons sipped champagne and enjoyed hors d’oeuvres while mingling with some of the operatic stars of “Don Giovanni” and enjoying the added ambiance of a soothing jazz band playing under the stars.

The cast and crew seemed nothing short of ecstatic of their opening night performance.  Tom Corbeil who embodied the humorous role of Leporello, Don Giovanni’s obedient servant; gave a few gracious words at the event upon receiving the Morgan P. and Evelyn R. Gilbert Artist Award, with remarks and presentation by FGO President and CEO Bob Heuer. Rebecca Luitto, who shares the role of Zerlina with Brittany Ann Renee Robinson, said it was enjoyable watching the show from the audience, being able to receive a different aspect of the show.

In recent years the dress code to such outings, even on Broadway or the London Stage have severely diminished; with patrons dressing more for a ballgame than an evening out.  The most enchanting part of this experience was the elegance the patrons brought back to the theater and cocktail party.

For more information on the Florida Grand Opera or tickets for Don Giovanni visit their website www.fgo.org.

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