Opera in the Heights to Host BRAVISSIMO! 2016 - AN EMERALD EVENING Fundraiser

Opera in the Heights (Oh!) announces "Bravissimo! 2016 - An Emerald Evening," the nonprofit organization's major fundraiser of the year, to be held on May 21 at La Colombe d'Or.

This year's event celebrates Oh!'s 20th season and honors the extensive contributions of Josie and Fred Nevill to Opera in the Heights over the past nine years. The emcee for the event is St. John Flynn, who serves as Houston Public Media's Arts & Culture Director, and is an ardent supporter of classical music and opera.

"Josie and Fred are passionate supporters of Oh! and could not be more deserving of this recognition," says Tony Tripodo, "Bravissimo!" co-chair with his wife Heather Tripodo. "Fred is a long-time board member who has taken a hands-on approach to improving and growing our organization. Both he and Josie have generously donated time, energy and money to Opera in the Heights. We are also thrilled to welcome St. John Flynn as our special guest emcee."

Oh!'s Director of Development, Becky Buturovic, has assembled a team of capable young professionals to serve on the gala committee with the Tripodos, also Oh! supporters for many years. These include Carli Baker, Lauren Bryan, Leah Hanson, Alexis Hester, Brittany Koger, Kari Schultz, Dr. Emily Moers and Elizabeth Yarotsky.

"We are excited to introduce a younger crowd to Opera in the Heights through 'Bravissimo!,' " says Buturovic. "I know several of these committee members personally, and they will take our 20th anniversary gala to a new level with their talents and expertise. These young professionals are the future leaders and supporters of Oh!."

Other Oh! board members planning "Bravissimo!" include Josh Agrons, Bo Eagles, Marianne Terrell, Dan Mathena and Will Speer. In addition to an elegant seated dinner and the presentation of the honorees, the evening will include special performances from some of Oh!'s most talented emerging artists. Some of the exciting live auction items for the gala include trips to a fully-staffed villa in Acapulco, Mexico; La Posada Resort in Santa Fe, New Mexico; and Red Willow Lodge in Big Fork, Montana; in addition to a gourmet dinner for six with Maestro Eiki Isomura and a collection of fine wines to stock a wine cellar.

Underwriting opportunities are available for the gala. Sponsorships begin at $5000 and include a table of 10 for the event, as well as several other benefits. Individual tickets begin at $375 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: "Bravissimo!" co-chairs Tony and Heather Tripodo with gala honorees Fred and Josie Nevill. Photo by Deji Osinulu Photography.

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