The Florida Grand Opera (FGO) is poised to start another successful and well-rounded season this fall with fan favorite, cross-cultural drama Madama Butterfly, which enjoyed a well-received run in Broadway. While the opera might recall a romanticized idea of elitism, the FGO has continuously managed a varied and accessible repertoire of works that appeal to seasoned lovers and newcomers to the art.
But nothing gets off the ground without a little bacchanalia and the FGO, which will have three of its productions at the Au-Rene Theater in the Broward Center for the Performing Arts will celebrate the season's kick-off with a cocktail party at III Forks.
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The FGO has been instrumental in the development of young artists and this cocktail party will be a great setting to witness up close many of tomorrow's stars who'll have a part in this upcoming season as extras, secondary cast members and/or peripheral support during productions. Enjoying III Forks' lounge setting, the new class of Young Artists in the Florida Grand Opera will be performing signature pieces from the upcoming productions.
Susan Danis, appointed the fourth General Director of the FGO in 2012, has been a key in the development of the company's operating budgets and scope, with a keen sense of community presence being a key in increasing the profile of opera in South Florida. As stated in the press release, "We are thrilled with our continued partnership with III Forks Restaurant as it provides an intimate setting to blend the sounds of opera with fine dining."
This is a free event and is open to the public; however, an RSVP is requested. There will be appetizers and a complimentary wine tasting followed by an optional dinner with the Young Artists. This is a great introduction to opera and quite frankly, a shrewd approach to widening the base of fans for the FGO. The opera is fun and beautiful. So's enjoying a nice glass of wine while an aria is gently sung a few feet from you.
The Florida Grand Opera Cocktail Party at 7 p.m. on Thursday, October 23 at III Forks Prime Steakhouse, 501 Silks Run, Hallandale. This event is free but an RSVP is required. Call 954-457-3920 or visit 3forks.com.
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