A night of opera, joy, and celebration in the park

Opera in the Park 2011 was special for a few reasons before it even began. It was the free concert's 10th annual outing and the final event of our 50th anniversary season, for starters. It was also a time to pay tribute to our beloved former general director and Opera in the Park co-founder Ann Stanke, who passed away in May. And it was also our new general director Kathryn Smith's first event at the helm of Madison Opera, a grand welcome for her if ever there was one.

For those reasons alone, we knew that it would be a special night. But we could not have predicted the perfect weather, clear with a light breeze and an almost-full moon. And we could not have predicted the musical alchemy onstage between our soloists Maria Kanyova, Daniela Mack, Scott Ramsay, and Hyung Yun. I think we all know that the music is what it's all about, and in the true spirit of Opera in the Park, the performances carried the night and are what stick with us today.

Before getting into some photos from Opera in the Park 2011, the entire Madison Opera family must first extend a huge thank you to everyone who generously contributed to the Opera in the Park Fund. It is my pleasure to announce that we have met our goal of raising $50,000! As part of our 50 for 50 campaign, you met the $25,000 challenge, which was then matched by a very generous friend of the opera. Hundreds of donations of all sizes played a role in meeting our goal, and we are so grateful for such an outpouring of community support.

And now, a look back to just two weeks ago...

"Such gorgeous music, hanging in the summer air, could make an opera lover out of anyone." -Lindsay Christians, The Capital Times