SARASOTA (WSNN) – As opera-goers can’t currently attend performances, the Sarasota Opera took its act on the road right here on the Suncoast.
It’s called the Opera Mobile;think of it as the Sarasota Opera on wheels. Like so many things we’re doing different these days, it’s a first for the Sarasota Opera.
“It is outside of our element, but we’re happy to try something new and hopefully entertain some people in the process,” Baritone singer, Alexander Boyd, said.
Recently married opera singers, Alexander Boyd and Hanna Brammer performed at Sarasota locations from in front of the Opera House, the Ritz Carlton to Suncoast neighborhoods.
The couple says they’re thankful to supporters for keeping their opera passion alive during these unique times.
“We want to share opera with people and art with people and the beauty of music because that’s something that gets people through these difficult times,” Soprano, Hanna Brammer, said.
Artistic director Victor DeRenzi says the opera’s last live performance occurred March 12th. It was La Wally, a four act opera by composer Alfredo Catalani. Tuesday’s mobile production is a first a first step back.
“Nothing like a live performance, which normally you hear inside the opera house, and we’re not live cause we have microphones,” DeRenzi, said. “But, we’re as close to live as you can get.”
“We’re really looking forward to the day where we can do full opera again, but right now, this is a way we can bring some music to our community,” Executive director, Richard Russell, said.
Sarasota Opera Lover, Louis Martorella, saw his last Opera in March and says watching the opera on wheels was a wonderful way spend his Tuesday morning.
“It reminded us how much we miss being able to go to the theater and to participate in what Sarasota is famous for, all the cultural activities,” Martorella said.
DeRenzi says he doesn’t know when the opera house will open its doors again, but all of us hope it will be soon. Tuesday’s concert tour was a test run, so future plans are a work in progress. Stay with SNN for any updates.
