About the Florentine Opera Company.

Milwaukee’s Florentine Opera Company is one of Wisconsin’s oldest and most enduring professional performing arts organizations. Celebrating its 75th Anniversary Season in 2008-2009, it is also the sixth oldest opera company in the United States.

The Florentine Opera Company's productions reflect the highest musical and theatrical standards, while supporting community and educational programs. As a leader in Wisconsin's art community and the nation's sixth oldest opera company, the Florentine Opera seeks to establish a significant presence in the cultural, educational and civic life of the state of Wisconsin and beyond.  The 2008-09 season marks the Florentine's 75th anniversary of bringing world-class opera to the Milwaukee stage.

All programs of the Florentine Opera Company are driven by the mission to present Grand Opera productions reflecting the highest musical and theatrical standards and designed to fulfill the Company's vision to expand the experiences of patrons with memorable, outstanding and exciting performances. Audiences enjoy beautiful main stage productions that include first-rate vocal artistry brought to life by established and emerging local, national and international opera stars.

With a foundation of fiscal responsibility, the company continues to grow its artistic and educational programs. Through its outreach and in-school educational programming, the Florentine provides vital arts education experiences for children, nurtures new audiences, and expands cultural horizons for the next generation.

Main stage performances are held at the Marcus Center for the Performing Arts in downtown Milwaukee-home to the Florentine Opera, Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra, Milwaukee Ballet, Broadway and Off-Broadway series.  The Florentine Opera is a charter member organization of the United Performing Arts Fund and receives Board grants from the City of Milwaukee, Milwaukee County and the State of Wisconsin, as well as support from corporations, foundations and individuals.

Today Florentine audiences enjoy:

Beautifully mounted main stage productions each season that include first-rate vocal artistry, the visual excitement of elaborate, period authentic sets and costumes, high drama, light hearted comedy and superb choreography - all on one stage!