Gulfshore Opera (GO) began its journey in June 2014 with the vision of bringing high-quality opera to Southwest Florida in a collaborative, inclusive environment. Founded by Steffanie Pearce, the company quickly established itself as a regional cultural force, staging concerts and full opera productions across Collier, Lee, and Charlotte counties. The first season, filled with early triumphs like the “Viva Verdi” concert and Hansel and Gretel, captured audiences’ hearts. With operations initially run from Pearce’s home, Gulfshore Opera’s humble beginnings were driven by passion and a commitment to making opera accessible to all. In just a few months, GO had made its mark.
As Gulfshore Opera entered its second season, the company expanded its outreach and programming, emphasizing its educational initiatives and community involvement. Pearce’s focus on at-risk youth led to the creation of the Harmony Choir, benefiting hundreds of children across the region. The collaboration with TheatreZone for Brigadoon and hosting the “Legends of Opera” gala, featuring stars like Michael Fabiano and Samuel Ramey, showcased the company’s ambition. GO was now about entertainment, community engagement, and building a love for classical vocal arts in Southwest Florida.
The third season marked a significant milestone with the debut of new artists, such as Jonathan Tetelman and Tyler Putnam, who would become recurring performers with GO. A highlight of the season was their performance of the contemporary opera Speed Dating Tonight, composed by Michael Ching. This season also featured a stunning production of Madama Butterfly, which toured multiple counties, captivating audiences throughout the region. The following season saw the grand production of Rigoletto featuring Jonathan Tetelman as the Duke. By now, GO had established a loyal audience and received praise for its artistry and quality performances, solidifying its reputation as a cultural staple.
By its fifth anniversary in 2019, Gulfshore Opera had become a regional powerhouse. The production of Don Pasquale was celebrated for its humor and elegance, while Verdi’s La Traviata captivated audiences with its emotional depth. GO also ventured into co-productions with Opera Fusion, expanding its reach and collaborations across the state. The company’s ability to balance grand opera productions with intimate chamber performances demonstrated its versatility and commitment to bringing opera to a wide range of audiences.
In 2020, The company planned a significant move to debut at the Barbara B Mann Performing Arts Hall, presenting a grand original production of La Bohème. As the world faced the COVID pandemic, Gulfshore Opera had to reschedule that debut and quickly adapted by creating socially distanced outdoor performances and keeping the music alive with open-air concerts. The GO Divas continued rehearsals and began offering performances in outdoor venues while the company’s commitment to community engagement remained strong. GO not only weathered the storm but thrived with innovative solutions like its “Opera al Fresco” series, allowing audiences to enjoy live music safely during difficult times.
Despite the challenges of the pandemic, 2021 was a big year. It started with a transformative gift of one million dollars by board member Mary McVay. Thanks to this gift, GO established the Leadership Fund, allowing advancements like moving operations into a 1500-square-foot office/rehearsal space on Estero’s Corkscrew Road. “We’re in Marco Island one day and Punta Gorda the next day,” Pearce says. “It’s wonderful to be centrally located.” In January 2021, the postponed debut at BB MANN PAH, La Bohème, was presented with social distancing. Afterward, GO became the only production company presenting full-scale grand opera productions at Barbara B. Mann and Artis–Naples in partnership with the Naples Philharmonic Orchestra.
Fast-forward to its 10th anniversary in 2023-2024, and Gulfshore Opera has grown exponentially, performing sold-out shows like Turandot at Artis–Naples and Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall. With a budget exceeding $1.1 million, GO has become a key player in Southwest Florida’s arts scene, bringing grand operas and chamber productions to diverse audiences. Through its innovative programming, commitment to community, and world-class performances, Gulfshore Opera has solidified its place as a beacon of cultural enrichment in the region.
