Opera in the Heights to Host BRAVISSIMO 2015 Fundraiser, 5/8

Houston, TX -- Opera in the Heights (OH!) announces "Bravissimo 2015 -- An Evening in the Magnolia City," the nonprofit organization's major fundraiser of the year, to be held on May 8 at the Petroleum Club. This year's event celebrates OH!'s 19th season and honors the extensive contributions of Opera in the Heights co-founding member and former artistic director Lois Alba.

Alba is a highly respected author, teacher and opera singer (soprano) who performed for 11 years in Europe, as well as the United States. A student of Bel Canto, Alba enjoyed leading performances in many well-known operas, including La Traviata, Cosi Fan Tutte, Turandot, La Boheme, Le Nozze Di Figaro, Der Rosenkavalier and Otello. Alba continues to teach master classes around the world and remains a tireless advocate for young singers in helping further their operatic careers.

"As Opera in the Heights heads into its 20th season, Bravissimo! offers the perfect opportunity to celebrate our amazing history, as well as look to the future of this company, which remains committed to young, emerging artists," says Marianne Terrell, board member of Opera in the Heights and co-chair of Bravissimo! with her husband, Kenny Terrell. "Our honoree, Lois Alba, fits perfectly with this mission. She is a visionary who has made a lasting impact on Opera in the Heights."

"Bravissimo 2015 -- An Evening in the Magnolia City" begins at 6:30 p.m. with a silent auction and cocktails, followed by a seated dinner with a live auction. "Magnolia City" is one Houston's earliest nicknames, as areas east of the city were once natural Magnolia forests.

As part of the evening's program, Opera in the Heights Board Chairman Josh Agrons will recognize Alba. Musical surprises are also in store for guests. The live auction boasts not only exciting trips, but also the opportunity to conduct the national anthem on opening night of the 20th Anniversary Season, as part of an "Ultimate Opera Experience" package. Party-goers will mingle with performers and OH! board members throughout the evening.

Underwriting opportunities are available for the gala. Sponsorships begin at $5000 and include a table of 10 for the event, as well as other benefits. Individual tickets begin at $500 each. Proceeds from Bravissimo! help Opera in the Heights to enhance the careers of young professional artists and enable those of all ages to enjoy opera at affordable prices. For more details about Bravissimo! or to order tickets call 713-861-5303 or email info@operaintheheights.org.

Opera in the Heights is a professional opera company that exists to provide a stage for emerging performers and to bring affordable opera to the Greater Houston Area. All operas are fully staged with an orchestra and presented in the original language with English translation (when applicable) projected above the stage.

Pictured: Marianne and Kenny Terrell, Bravissimo! Co-chairs; Photo by Opera in the Heights.

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