News Summary
Opera Orlando is set to host the Florida premiere of Scott Joplin’s opera ‘Treemonisha’, with performances on May 16 and May 17. Due to high demand, an additional performance has been added, showcasing the opera’s significance as America’s first opera. The production will be in English with supertitles available in both English and Spanish, highlighting themes of community and empowerment. Notable talents from the region will be featured in this collaborative cultural event.
Orlando, Florida – Opera Orlando is excited to announce the Florida premiere of Scott Joplin’s opera “Treemonisha,” set to open on May 16, 2025, at 7:30 p.m. Due to overwhelming ticket sales for this historic production, an additional performance has been added to the Saturday lineup, resulting in two performances on May 17, 2025. Audiences can now enjoy the opera at 2 p.m. and again at 7:30 p.m. The performance on May 18, 2025, at 2 p.m. is already sold out, highlighting the increasing demand for this important piece of American musical history.
The opera will be performed in English, accompanied by both English and Spanish supertitles to ensure accessibility for a wider audience. This production marks a significant cultural moment, as “Treemonisha” is recognized as America’s first opera.
The cast features a talented lineup, including Taylor-Alexis Dupont in the role of Treemonisha, supported by NaGuanda Nobles as Monisha, Lloyd Reshard as Ned, and Leo Williams as Remus. Additional cast members include Brian Love (Zodzetrick), Geoffrey Peterson (Simon), and Opera Orlando Studio Artists Thandolwethu Mamba and Kristen Marie Gillis, who will portray Parson Alltalk and Lucy, respectively. Alumni from Opera Orlando SINGS, Israel Anderson and Karl Didier Auguste, are also part of the production, playing the roles of Andy and Cephus.
The production will be conducted by Everett McCorvey and directed by Roberta Emerson, ensuring a high-quality artistic presentation. The performances will take place at the Alexis & Jim Pugh Theater at the Dr. Phillips Center, a venue known for hosting significant cultural events in the Orlando area.
The storyline of “Treemonisha” revolves around the character Treemonisha, a young Black woman who leads her community toward prosperity through education and empowerment. The narrative encapsulates themes of social change and the importance of community solidarity, resonating deeply with contemporary audiences.
This special production will also incorporate the Opera Orlando Chorus, alongside students from Bethune-Cookman University, participants from the Opera Orlando Youth Company, and local dancers, making it a collaborative effort to showcase regional talent and diversity in the performing arts.
Opera Orlando’s decision to add an extra performance reflects the growing public interest in operatic works that celebrate historical narratives, particularly those centered on underrepresented voices. By concluding the 2024-25 Destiny + Desire Season with “Treemonisha,” Opera Orlando aims to not only entertain but also educate audiences about the significance of this operatic work, which has often been overshadowed in the broader landscape of American opera.
Tickets for the newly added performance on May 17, 2025, are expected to sell quickly, and interested attendees are encouraged to secure their seats as soon as possible. This Florida premiere of “Treemonisha” promises to be a milestone event in the cultural calendar of Orlando, providing a unique and enriching experience for all who attend.
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Additional Resources
- Opera Wire
- Orlando Sentinel
- Orlando Weekly
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Treemonisha
- Google Search: Scott Joplin Treemonisha
Author: STAFF HERE ORLANDO WRITER
ORLANDO STAFF WRITER The ORLANDO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOrlando.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Orlando, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival, Megacon Orlando, and Central Florida Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Orlando Economic Partnership and Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Metro Orlando, plus leading businesses in leisure and hospitality that power the local economy such as Walt Disney World Resort, AdventHealth, and Universal Orlando. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
