A Letter From Maestro Mark Sforzini
Dear Friends of St. Petersburg Opera:
We are living in unprecedented times as the citizens of the world valiantly face a global pandemic. I believe that planning the future requires fluidity of thought and patience at this moment.
Some things are certain, and other decisions require ongoing monitoring of current affairs. I would like to update you on St. Petersburg Opera events, and share some important ideas with you as we move forward cautiously. SPO wants to be here for you and our community through this crisis and beyond.
FIRST, UPCOMING EVENTS
Creative Collaborations (Originally scheduled for March 13 and 14). It is our intention to reschedule this event for a future date. All our wonderful singers and instrumentalists had worked and rehearsed through the dress rehearsal, and I can say this is going to be quite a special performance when it does happen.
All participating artists are safe and healthy to our knowledge and have returned home. Previous ticket purchases will of course be honored for the rescheduled dates.
La Fille du Régiment (May 29-June 7). We are postponing this production. It is our hope to present this opera as the first of our 2020-2021 Season (our 15th!) with performances in mid-October 2020.
Previous ticket purchases will be honored. Season 15 subscriptions will include a discount for those who have already purchased tickets to La Fille du Régiment.
Bella Voce (May 8). Our annual fundraising gala will be rescheduled at a date to be determined.
Pops Spectacular (July 3-5). This production remains on our calendar for the moment.
You may convert the value of your purchased tickets into a tax-deductible donation to St. Petersburg Opera Company by emailing BoxOffice@stpeteopera.org.
SECOND, WEATHERING THE CRISIS
Our staff, board and committees are currently exploring the ways to best serve our community. We are looking at the possibility of live streaming small (2-3 person) performances, as well as sharing past SPO productions with you via platforms like YouTube and Facebook.
THIRD, THANK YOU FOR YOUR PAST AND FUTURE SUPPORT
You will play an important role in ensuring that St. Petersburg Opera emerges resilient and ready to serve our community.
Please consider the past, present and future value that opera and live arts play in your life and support SPO with any size gift today.
Thank you for all your assistance. Please stay healthy. We will see you again at the opera!
Mark Sforzini
Executive and Artistic Director
Established in 1964, with the mission to educate, to build appreciative audiences, and to encourage young talent throughout the state of Florida by providing classical vocal and opera competitions. We support the St. Petersburg Opera Company and its educational programs.
2020 High School Competition
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 15TH
Our 49th Annual High School Vocal Competition was held Saturday, February 15, 2020. Presented by Co-Sponsors St. Petersburg Opera Guild and St. Petersburg Opera Company.
General Meeting Luncheons
Due to concerns regarding the corona virus, the luncheons planned for April and May are cancelled.
2020 High School Vocal Competition Winners
St. Petersburg Country Club 2000 Country Club Way S. St Petersburg 33712
More Upcoming Events
Education
St Pete Opera Guild helps to fund a program for schoolchildren introducing them to opera.
Here is a video about a production of Pinocchio produced by St. Petersburg Opera.
Competitions
Since our inception, the St. Petersburg Opera Guild has provided scholarships to young Floridians to further their operatic goals.
Now in our 50th Year, the High School Competition continues in 2020!
Some 2019 Winners
Of course, the St. Petersburg Opera Guild supports the St. Petersburg Opera Company, and the talented team of professionals led by Maestro Mark Sforzini.
49th annual High School Vocal Competition Winners!
The young voices soared! It was a wonderful event on February 15th when St. Petersburg Opera Guild’ in conjunction with St. Petersburg Opera, celebrated the
Febuary Artist: Jean Carlos Rodriguez
SPOG – 2-28-20 General Meeting Luncheon – GUEST ARTIST Jean Carlos Rodriguez Dominican born baritone, Jean Carlos Rodriguez, is known for his colorful voice and
2019 SPOG Cultural Award
Since 1973, the St. Petersburg Opera Guild has presented an annual award to honor individuals for their contributions to the cultural life of our community.
Guillermo Lopez, November Guest Artist
GUILLERMO LOPEZ SUNGKYEONG KIM The artistic guest for the St. Petersburg Opera Guild November General Luncheon Meeting is Guillermo Lopez, accompanied by Sungkyeong Kim. GUILLERMO
First Annual World Opera day 25 October
World Opera Day – to promote the value of opera for society 25 October Join Opera Europa, OPERA America and Ópera Latinoamérica to celebrate the
Donate Snacks for the Cast!
Many thanks to Ursula Carroll, Muriel Desloovere, Nina Luse, Michelle Rego and Bill Lofgren for donating snacks for the casts of Suor Angelica/Gianni Schicchi and
Belle Epoque Theme for 54th Annual Silver Bells
Invitation Reservation Donation The theme this year is “La Belle Epoque” and will be held at Isla del Sol Y&CC which lends itself to the
