Read this excerpt about Opera Maine’s 2024 Gala from Portland Press Herald’s article, “Society Notebook: Opera Maine goes big for ‘Aida‘” by Amy Paradysz;
photo by Amy Paradysz
“At the Opera Maine Gala at Ocean Gateway on April 25, Egyptian influences were everywhere – the décor, the menu, the auction items, the floral arrangements and even guests’ fashion choices.
Opera Maine co-founder Jack Riddle had a pharaoh print on his tie, Mary Doughty wore a loose-fitting galabeya she bought in Egypt, and trustee Elizabeth Astor’s wide gold-colored beaded necklace evoked the ancient Egyptian style.
These local opera lovers are anticipating the Opera Maine production of Giuseppe Verdi’s “Aida,” a larger-than-life romance set in ancient Egypt, on July 25 and 28.
photo by Amy Paradysz
“We have an epic season coming up with ‘Aida’ – our biggest production yet,” said Executive Director Caroline Musica Koelker.
The gala – featuring selections by soprano Jamila Drecker-Waxman (from “Rocking Horse Winner” in 2023) and tenor Joe Sacchi (from “The Fall of the House of Usher” in 2022) – raised $55,000 to support Opera Maine’s big summer season.
“‘Aida’ requires a large orchestra – twice the size of what we had last year – and is famous for its Triumphal March,” said Board President Arlene Schwind of Portland. “It’s the most ambitious opera we’ve produced.””