Opera Memphis Hosts Second Annual Season Preview Gala

September 26, 2009 at Clark Opera Memphis Center

On Saturday, September 26, 2009 Opera Memphis will host its second annual Season Preview Gala, a black tie fundraiser for the organization. The event provides an opportunity to mingle with local arts supporters over a three course gourmet dinner and enjoy opera performances by the company’s mainstage singers.

The 2009-2010 Season Preview Gala will be held at the Clark Opera Memphis Center at 6745 Wolf River Parkway, Opera Memphis administrative headquarters and rehearsal facility. The unique contemporary facility is located on the corner of Wolf River Parkway (Humphreys Blvd.) and Kirby in East Memphis.

A complimentary full beverage bar will open at 7:00 pm for a cocktail hour and silent art auction, and dinner by Ann Barnes (Just Catering and Just for Lunch) will be served at 8:00 pm. Dinner will be accompanied by selections from each production of the 2009-2010 season. Kaori Williams will sing excerpts from MADAME BUTTERFLY, giving audiences a sneak peek of her debut as Cio-Cio San in the April 2010 production. Opera Memphis patrons will recognize her from her most recent appearance as Liu in the 2007 production of TURANDOT. Opera Memphis staff member and local soprano Sarah Squire will perform a selection from January 2010’s ORPHEUS, in which she will play the role of Amor. An aria from COSI FAN TUTTE will be performed by local artist Maggie Malone, and a selection by 2009 Opera Memphis Senior Conservatory Alum Robert Palmer will round out the evening’s opera entertainment.

Post-dinner dancing with Memphis’ favorite party trio The Dempseys will cap off the night. The Dempseys have been referred to by the Rockabilly Hall of Fame as “the most entertaining rockabilly show on the planet.” A Hollywood style gift bag will be given to each guest, with items donated by vendors including Sephora, Phyto, Aromatique, and Tan-n-Go.

Tickets are $200 per person and $1600 per table of eight. Tickets are on sale and may be purchased by calling Opera Memphis at 901.257.3100 or by contacting Christiana Leibovich, Special Events Coordinator, at christiana@operamemphis.org.