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Posts Tagged ‘Luxury’



Socialite Michelle-Marie Heinemann and Victor DeRenzi, the Artistic Director and Principal Conductor of Sarasota Opera.


SARASOTA, FL – The Marriage of Figaro: A Masterclass in Love, Mischief, and Musical Brilliance


Sharing a laugh, attorney Christos Nicholoudis, Maestro Victor DeRenzi and Socialite Michelle-Marie Heinemann.


I just attended Mozart’s The Marriage of Figaro at the Sarasota Opera House. It is the operatic equivalent of an expertly crafted farce—equal parts wit, romance, and delightful chaos, all wrapped in a score so sublime it could make even the most hardened cynic believe in love (or at least in the power of a well-placed disguise).

At its core, the opera is a whirlwind of deception, desire, and deliciously sharp social commentary. Figaro, a quick-witted valet, is set to marry his beloved Susanna, but his employer—the rakish and incorrigibly entitled Count Almaviva—has other ideas. Determined to exercise an outdated feudal privilege (and his own lack of self-restraint), the Count attempts to seduce Susanna, much to the dismay of his neglected wife, the ever-dignified Countess. What follows is a symphony of mistaken identities, near-misses, and intricate plots, all executed with the kind of impeccable comedic timing that makes one wonder if Mozart secretly invented the modern rom-com.

Yet beneath the playful disguises and rapid-fire recitatives lies a more profound commentary on power, class, and the ever-astounding ability of the human heart to outmaneuver even the most Machiavellian of minds. With music that sparkles as much as the intrigue, The Marriage of Figaro is both a testament to love’s resilience and a cautionary tale for aristocrats who underestimate their servants.

By the time the curtain falls, order is restored, lovers are reunited, and the Count—humbled but not entirely reformed—begs for forgiveness in one of opera’s most exquisite moments of reconciliation. The lesson? Never underestimate a clever valet, a determined bride, or the power of a well-timed musical number. 

A standing ovation for the following cast members and staff. 

Cast: 

Figaro, Mattia Venni

Susanna, Virginia Mims

Countess Almaviva, Michelle Johnson

Count Almaviva, Jake Stamatis

Cherubino, Tessa Fackelman

Bartolo, Brian Kontes

Conductor, Louis Lohraseb

Stage Director, Tom Diamond 

Costume Designer, Howard Tsvi Kaplan

Lighting Designer, Ken Yunker

Set Designer, J. Michael Wingfield 

*Ms. Heinemann is a classically trained pianist having recorded 2 albums and recently performed at the prestigious Fazioli Concert Hall in Sacile, Italy.


Michelle-Marie Heinemann Scaglia and Silvio Scaglia
 Michelle-Marie Heinemann Scaglia and Silvio Scaglia
Michelle-Marie Heinemann Scaglia and Silvio Scaglia


QUATTROPASSI AL PESCATORE is an authentic expression of the Mediterranean Sea against the background of the powerful Sardinian landscape.

Quattro Passi al Pescatore
Quattro Passi al Pescatore


The only restaurant pieds dans l’eau on the Costa Smeralda, the restaurant offers sophisticated service and elegant design elements with unique fabrics and materials. For the first time, the menu was designed in collaboration with two Michelin Star Quattropassi restaurants and is inspired by Mediterranean cuisine, highlighting fresh and local ingredients.

Quattro Passi al Pescatore
Quattro Passi al Pescatore

Sensational Seafood at the Waterfront

A Porto Cervo institution for seafood lovers, Quattro Passi Al Pescatore offers a menu of inspired Sardinian cuisine in a stunning waterfront venue at the heart of the Vecchio Molo.

Quattro Passi al Pescatore
Quattro Passi al Pescatore

Quattro Passi Al Pescatore, attached to the Cervo Hotel, was the first restaurant to be built on the Costa Smeralda, back in the 1960s, and today offers one of the most exciting local seafood menus in an exclusive waterside location.

Quattro Passi al Pescatore
Quattro Passi al Pescatore

Formerly known as Il Pescatore, the restaurant has recently been completely renovated and redesigned, with a contemporary rustic look and a new menu created by two Michelin-Star chef Antonio Mellino. With views over the turquoise harbour and yachts bobbing in the sea beyond.

Michelle-Marie Heinemann Scaglia and Silvio Scaglia
Michelle-Marie Heinemann Scaglia and Silvio Scaglia

Conveniently located just a short tender ride from the marina, Quattro Passi Al Pescatore is an ideal choice.

Address: Costa Smeralda, 07020 Porto Cervo, Italy
Phone: +39 0789 931624

Located in: Promenade du Port

Menu · destinationcostasmeralda.com

Quattro Passi al Pescatore
Quattro Passi al Pescatore
Summer has finally sprung upon us. Though you may prefer to escape the hustle and bustle in favor of the crisp air near the Aegean Sea, spending summer in the city is truly magical, especially since you can, literally, find a taste of Mediterranean serenity without having to island hop. If you can’t afford an exotic adventure to Greece or Coastal Italy, you can, at least, take your taste buds on vacation.

Cafe Medi

 Serving up dishes inspired by the traditional coastal fare of Spain, Italy, and France, Cafe Medi is not only a go-to for delicious and unique Mediterranean, but also for an amazing ‘gram. The beautiful space boasts an airy atmosphere, complete with high ceilings and stunning murals on the walls. Come summer, there’s also outdoor terrace seating – perfect for pretending you’re catching a seaside breeze.

Cafe Medi, 107 Rivington St.

 

Yefsi Estiatorio

Located on the Upper East Side, Yefsi highlights charm and sophistication in their authentic meals, focusing on appetizer meze dishes. Enjoy a plate of grilled octopus with a chilled Retsina white wine in this dimly lit restaurant. Date night, anyone?

 

Yefsi Estiatorio, 1481 York Ave.

 

Avra

Craving seafood? This upscale eatery on Madison Avenue emanates a “villa vibe” with extended outdoor seating available, displaying fresh whole fish from the Aegean upon entrance.

 

Avra Madison Estiatorio, 14 E 60th St.

The Greek

The Greek Tribeca offers a cozy escape, where creative dishes and natural vines and greenery capture the spotlight, as if you were sitting in an outdoor taverna in Mykonos on a hot summer night.

 

The Greek,  458 Greenwich St. 

Estiatorio Milos

Named after the volcanic island featuring pristine clear-blue water, Milos is an NYC favorite. Its sleek interior truly brings out the contrasting colors native to Greece and sharpens the focus on the incredible seafood.

 

Estiatorio Milos, 125 W 55th St.

Ousia

Just a quick drive down the West Side Highway transports you to the beauty of Greece as you stumble upon Ousia, a recently opened restaurant on 57th and 11th. Conveniently located next to the Landmark movie theater, enjoy a bite of their hummus and pita, maybe some cocktails and a spanakopita, after a show.

 

Ousia, 629 W 57th St.

Souvlaki GR

Walking down the grey and white cobblestones, you will immediately feel as if you’ve stepped foot into a local taverna in Santorini, greeted with white walls and blue straw chairs. If you’re looking for something more laid-back but as equally delicious as an upscale restaurant, journey to Souvlaki GR for their famous bifteki sandwich or a few souvlaki skewers. Sit back, relax, and breathe in the fresh air of Greece while situated in the middle of the Lower East Side.

Souvlaki GR, 116 Stanton St.

Santina

Tired of Greek food? Hop on over to the Amalfi coast for this Italian-Mediterranean fusion restaurant situated just beneath The High Line. The glassed-in, jewel box of a space creates the perfect atmosphere to munch on some seafood and pasta after a day of roaming around Chelsea.

 

Santina, 820 Washington St.

Shuka

A small, intimate setting with colorful plates for curious palates awaits New Yorkers on Macdougal street. Shuka offers Mediterranean fare, creative cocktails, and a trendy clientele. Enjoy shawarma, shakshuka, and other small plates as you wine and dine while seeing and being seen.

 

Shuka, 38 Macdougal St.

 

Written By: Stella Stephanopoulos