Gulfshore Opera proudly presents a full-scale grand production of Donizetti’s dark romance, Lucia di Lammermoor in partnership with the Naples Philharmonic Orchestra. Performances will take place on April 29, 2025, at Barbara B. Mann Performing Arts Hall and conclude on May 2, 2025, at Artis—Naples. Gulfshore Opera is the only production company offering full-scale grand opera at these major venues in Southwest Florida.
The production features three artists from the Metropolitan Opera roster: Soprano Susanne Burgess in her company and role debut as Lucia and tenor Derrek Stark, returning as her lover Edgardo, after his acclaimed performance in The Bat’s Revenge. The baritone lead of Lucia’s brother, Lord Enrico is performed by Javier Arrey whose international career has taken him to Vienna Stats Opera, San Francisco Opera and Opera de Monte-Carlo in addition to the Metropolitan Opera. The setting is Northern Europe in the 1600s. The production boasts a lush gothic set designed by Grant Preiser and stunning costumes designed by Jen J Madison in addition to Donizetti’s brilliant score. English surtitles will be provided.
“Our collaboration with the Naples Philharmonic at Southwest Florida’s largest professional theaters allows us to deliver an unforgettable experience showcasing the best of grand opera,” says Artistic Director Steffanie Pearce. ” Lucia is one the greatest roles for soprano and I’m confident that Susane Burgess will deliver an unforgettable mad scene.
A tale of love, betrayal, and madness, Lady Lucia Ashton is torn between allegiance to her family and her love for Edgardo–sworn enemy to the Ashton household. A forced marriage leads to tragic ends for all involved in this gorgeous operatic treatment of Sir Walter Scott’s gothic romance The Bride of Lammermoor.
Award winning stage director, Rose Freeman, known for her work with major companies like the Lyric Opera of Chicago helms this production, ensuring all elements come together for a world class production of this classic grand opera.
Secure Your Seats Today
These performances are the perfect way to experience the beauty and excitement of live vocal music. We encourage you to secure your seats early and join us for these captivating events.
Please contact Steffanie Pearce ([email protected]) if you would like to interview the artists or production team. Full event details are below. For more information, call GO Headquarters at 239-529-3925.
The absolute highlight of the show... mastering high-flying coloratura while swinging from the rafters... stopping the show with earnest plush lyric tone.
Susanne Burgess demonstrated wonderful vocal prowess, taking the character to sonorous and extravagant heights... Her rendition was rich and full of sassy body language, with Burgess humorously and sensually breaking the fourth wall"
Hailed by Opera News for his “handsome sound,” and described as a “standout”
Your regional opera company serves three counties, and Gulfshore Opera presents the highest quality of opera theater and vocal music performances while maximizing accessibility for diverse audiences of all ages. Gulfshore Opera was founded with the core values of a community-based creative collaboration. The company also promotes community well-being through musical education programs. Its mission is to make opera accessible to the general public by maintaining affordable ticket prices and offering a wide range of performance experiences suitable for diverse audiences.
