In-House Orchestra and Art Deco Style Define Florida Grand Opera’s ‘Die Fledermaus’

A New Era for Florida Grand Opera

Florida Grand Opera (FGO) is undergoing a transformation that aims to make opera more accessible, relevant, and exciting for a broader audience. This shift is led by Todaro, who was named interim director in 2023 and later became general director and CEO. Her vision is to ensure FGO remains a vital cultural institution while embracing innovation and inclusivity.

Todaro’s background in opera, both as a mezzo-soprano and the daughter of renowned Italian and Brazilian opera singers, has shaped her approach to leading the company. She emphasizes the importance of keeping opera relevant, especially for younger and more diverse audiences. One of her notable initiatives was the staging of "Carmen" last season, which featured a cameo by Julia Lemigova, a star from "The Real Housewives of Miami." This move helped attract new patrons to the opera, showcasing how pop culture can intersect with classical art forms.

Building an In-House Orchestra

A key component of Todaro’s strategy is establishing a resident orchestra, which she believes will elevate FGO’s status as a true international opera company. In May 2024, Pablo Mielgo was appointed as the music director. Mielgo, who currently resides in Majorca, has been the artistic and musical director of the Orquesta Sinfónica Islas Baleares since 2014. He explained that having an in-house orchestra fosters a deeper connection between the musicians and the company, creating a sense of ownership and commitment.

Mielgo’s appointment marks a significant step forward for FGO. The in-house orchestra made its debut with the production of "Silent Night," but "Die Fledermaus" will be the first time the ensemble will perform together under his leadership. This collaboration is expected to enhance the overall quality and cohesion of the performances.

A Fresh Take on "Die Fledermaus"

Todaro and stage director Conor Hanratty have reimagined Johann Strauss’s classic operetta "Die Fledermaus" with a distinctly local twist. The production features a Latino tenor instead of the traditional Italian tenor, reflecting the demographic makeup of Miami. This change is not just symbolic; it is a deliberate effort to make the opera more relatable and inclusive for the city’s diverse population.

The dialogue has been completely rewritten in English, while the sung portions remain in German with English and Spanish supertitles. Todaro emphasized the importance of preserving the authenticity of the German language while making the spoken elements accessible to a wider audience. This balance allows the humor and wit of the operetta to shine through, ensuring that the performance resonates with both longtime opera enthusiasts and newcomers.

Art Deco Set and International Inspiration

The production of "Die Fledermaus" also features an Art Deco set designed by Belgian set designer Benoît Dugardyn. Originally created for the Glyndebourne Festival Opera in England, the set has traveled globally and was recently acquired by FGO. The design draws inspiration from the opulence of the 1920s and adds a visual flair that complements the operetta’s themes.

Costumes inspired by Austrian painter Gustav Klimt were also acquired from Washington National Opera. Designed by German costume designer Ingeborg Bernerth, these costumes are being adapted to fit the production’s aesthetic. Todaro described them as "cool, bubbly, and accessible," aligning with FGO’s mission to modernize the opera experience.

A Gala to Celebrate Global Influence

To mark the opening of "Die Fledermaus," FGO will host a gala at the Adrienne Arsht Center, featuring the Art Deco set as the backdrop. The event will include the first Global Elevare Awards, recognizing leaders who have made a significant impact on their communities. Recipients include Prince Ndaba Mandela, Joseph Fowler, Leigh Gilmore, and Afo Verde, among others. The awards will be designed by Romero Britto, a Brazilian-born artist based in Miami, further reinforcing the event’s Miami-centric theme.

Looking Ahead

For Todaro, the transformation of FGO represents more than just a new production or a new orchestra—it is the foundation for the company to become a true international house. She believes that momentum is building, and there is a growing awareness of FGO’s presence in the cultural landscape of Miami. With continued efforts to innovate and engage new audiences, the future of FGO looks promising.

Event Details

WHAT: Florida Grand Opera’s "Die Fledermaus"

WHEN: 6:30 p.m., Saturday, Jan. 24, 3 p.m., Sunday, Jan. 25, and 8 p.m., Tuesday, Jan. 27.

WHERE: Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts, 1300 Biscayne Blvd., Miami

COST: $28 – $306 includes all fees.

INFORMATION: 800-741-1010 or fgo.org