Peaking flavors and powerful voices come together for an intimate evening at Sotto Sopra on the first Opera Night of the year.
For many of the restaurant?s patrons, it?s the first time hearing a live voice singing opera up close, said Paul McIlvaine, one of Opera Night?s stars. The monthly event attracts both novices who have never heard a high note and music-lovers who impersonate Pavarotti in the shower.
“It?s opera up close and personal, but not scary,” said Kathleen Stapleton, Opera Night?s leading lady, who has performed with the Baltimore Opera for many years. “We?re not intimidating. We make opera attainable instead of something that seems scary because it?s in a foreign language,” she said.
Between each of the six courses served on Opera Night, McIlvaine?s tenor tones harmonize with Stapleton?s soprano voice. An electric piano played by Thomas Hetrick accompanies their duets and arias.
“It?s always good to start with a drinking song,” McIlvaine said. “We have a standard opening from “La Traviata” by Verdi.”
After La Traviata, McIlvaine and Stapleton build the program on the spot based on audience requests.
If YOU GO
» Where: 405 N. Charles St.
» When: Sunday; 5:30 p.m.
» Cost: $55, including a six-course meal
» 410-625-0534
www.sottosoprainc.com
