SARASOTA, FL – A Riveting Revival: Sarasota Opera’s Masterful Production of Verdi’s “Stiffelio”

I attended the Sarasota Opera’s production of Giuseppe Verdi’s “Stiffelio” this past weekend which was truly a memorable experience. The opera, which delves into themes of faith, forgiveness, and marital fidelity, was brought to life by a stellar cast. However, first a synopsis of Stiffelio….

A Protestant minister returns from a mission abroad to be confronted by his wife’s infidelity. Stiffelio faces his wife’s transgression, battling his all-too human emotions with his religious faith. Written just before Rigoletto, this long neglected, emotionally charged work is now recognized as an important opera by the great Giuseppe Verdi.

Tenor Victor Starsky delivered a powerful performance in the title role of Stiffelio, capturing the character’s emotional turmoil with depth and nuance. Soprano Aviva Fortunata portrayed Lina, Stiffelio’s wife, with remarkable sensitivity and vocal prowess, conveying the complexities of her character’s inner conflict. Baritone Ricardo José Rivera embodied Count Stankar, Lina’s father, with commanding presence and rich vocal tones. Bass Young Bok Kim lent gravitas to the role of Jorg, providing a solid foundation to the ensemble.

The production was masterfully conducted by Victor DeRenzi, whose deep understanding of Verdi’s work was evident throughout the performance. Stage director Stephanie Sundine’s insightful direction allowed the narrative to unfold seamlessly, while the set design by Steven C. Kemp and lighting design by Ken Yunker created an immersive atmosphere that enhanced the storytelling. The costumes, designed by Howard Tsvi Kaplan, were both authentic and visually stunning, adding to the overall impact of the production.

Experiencing “Stiffelio” Verdi’s lesser-known masterpiece, made all the more memorable by the exceptional talents of the cast and creative team. Truly my favorite so far!!!

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

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.