The new year is still “new,” but most Americans have already shed those optimistic (or pesky) resolutions.
After a few days, exercise and diets require deeper commitments.
But, when it comes to the arts, resolutions are easily made and easily kept. And it’s not too late to make new ones. Lunar (Chinese) New Year was Jan. 22, so consider that a reset, even if we are already into February. Resolve to check out one of the award-winning regional theater companies or take in a concert. Explore funky new venues – or a funky new opera.
South Florida boasts one of the most vibrant arts scenes in the country and many of the most exciting productions are set for later in the season.
Florida Grand Opera
Stages in Miami and Fort Lauderdale will glitter with stars from all corners of the operatic world in a grand season filled with romance, ruses and rebellion.
Florida Grand Opera’s first production of the year, Puccini’s comic gem “Gianni Schicchi” returns to the FGO stage for the first time since 1953. The darkly comic tale of a toxic family that tries to circumvent their late patriarch’s will pairs with Michael Ching’s equally clever contemporary sequel, “Buoso’s Ghost,” which picks up at the moment “Schicchi” ends.
Audiences will enjoy the rare opportunity to hear a composer conduct his own opera, as Ching takes the stand for both one-acts. Ching served on the FGO music staff for several years at the beginning of his impressive career: first as a music assistant, then as music administrator and finally, as chorus master.
After January performances at the Arsht Center, the double bill moves February 9 and 11 to the Broward Center in Fort Lauderdale.
Next up is a fiery tale of love, loyalty, and sacrifice in Napoleonic Rome, Puccini’s “Tosca,” one of the Italian’s most beloved scores. “Tosca” will be performed March 18 – 21 at the Arsht Center in Miami and April 13 and 15 at the Broward Center in Fort Lauderdale.
Maestro Gregory Buchalter and stage director Jeffrey Marc Buchman reunite after last season’s acclaimed “A Streetcar Named Desire” to conduct and direct, respectively; the cast also features Metropolitan Opera soprano Toni Marie Palmertree, making her house and role debuts.
In the final opera of the season, FGO revives the beloved Rossini comedy, “The Barber of Seville,” April 29 – May 2 at the Arsht Center and May 18 and 20 at the Broward Center.
South Korean baritone Young-Kwang Yoo, a rising international star, takes on the lovable rascal Figaro. Returning as a guest artist after two years in the Studio Program, mezzo-soprano Stephanie Doche brings her brilliant coloratura and charming stage presence to the clever ward Rosina.
Tickets and more information at FGO.org.
