Naples, FL – Gulfshore Opera is proud to announce its highly anticipated production of Antonín Dvořák’s beloved opera Rusalka, touring Southwest Florida March 25-29. This melodic masterpiece, based on a Czech folklore version of The Little Mermaid, tells the poignant tale of unrequited love, sacrifice, and redemption.
Set against the ethereal backdrop of a tranquil lake, Rusalka follows the journey of a water nymph who falls in love with a human prince. In her quest for love, Rusalka bargains with the witch, Jeziba trading her voice for a human form.. She forsakes her immortality, only to face heartbreak when the prince abandons her. Unlike the Disney adaptation, this deeply romantic and tragic tale explores themes of longing and the ultimate price of desire. In a stirring twist, the prince seeks redemption, returning to the lake and offering his own life to restore Rusalka’s immortality.
Dvořák’s Rusalka is best known for its enchanting “Song to the Moon,” one of the most celebrated soprano arias in the operatic repertoire. Although written in 1900, the opera faced challenges in reaching American audiences due to its Czech libretto, with its first U.S. performance delayed until 1975. Gulfshore Opera ensures accessibility for all by presenting this regional premiere in a new English translation by acclaimed stage director Josh Shaw, who returns to direct after last season’s triumphant Turandot.
The production will feature a cast of five nationally renowned artists and ten regionally-based ensemble singers, accompanied by the newly formed Florida Philharmonic under the baton of Alexandra Enyart. This fully staged chamber opera will be presented in intimate venues across Southwest Florida, including Arts Bonita, Norris Center in downtown Naples and Burnt Store Presbyterian in Punta Gorda. To further enhance the audience’s experience, English surtitles will be projected during the performance.
Gulfshore Opera’s Rusalka promises to be a visual and auditory feast, with the original set and costume designs reflecting the magical and otherworldly elements of the story. The collaboration with the Florida Philharmonic, based in Punta Gorda under the artistic direction of Richard Stoelzel, marks an exciting new chapter for both organizations. Together, they will bring Dvořák’s sweeping score to life and transport audiences to a world of mystery, romance, and haunting beauty.
Performances will take place from March 25th to March 29th, 2025. Join us for a night of musical magic and experience the emotional power of Rusalka, where love and sacrifice intertwine in one of opera’s most mesmerizing tales.
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.
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.
The Florida Philharmonic is a newly formed professional symphony orchestra based in Punta Gorda, dedicated to delivering world-class performances and fostering a deep appreciation for the arts in the local community. Led by Artistic Director Richard Stoelzel, the Philharmonic is committed to excellence, artistic innovation, and transformative learning experiences.
