As COVID cases jump, more theater events head online
As the coronavirus has a resurgence across Central Florida, local arts groups are moving more of their upcoming programs and events online. Here are some of the most recent announcements.
Opera Orlando
Opera Orlando’s annual summer concert series, Opera on Park, will move online this year, the company announced Friday. The 2020 series features Nathan Granner and Jamie Chamberlin on Aug. 23, Gregg Baker on Aug. 30, and Carlos Enrique Santelli and Ashley Dixon on Sept. 6. The singers will record their performances in locations that provide quality acoustics,but they also will appear live to talk about the music.
The shows will be free to watch as part of Opera Orlando’s ongoing “The High Note” programs, which stream on the company’s Facebook page. A $30 donation per concert is suggested, or a $75 contribution if watching all three.
The series usually takes place at the University Club of Winter Park on Park Avenue. One of its main selling points — experiencing live music up-close and personal — worked against it in the era of COVID-19.
“It’s an intimate setting,” said Gabriel Preisser, Opera Orlando’s executive director. “That just didn’t make sense.” On Sept. 13, “The High Note” will air a concert by Preisser in celebration of his Grammy award this January. And anyone who donates a minimum of $75 this fall, will be sent a link to watch Opera Orlando’s fifth-anniversary party on Sept. 20, broadcast live from historic Casa Feliz in Winter Park.
For more information, go to operaorlando.org.
Mad Cow Theatre
Mad Cow Theatre’s annual Black & White Bash, originally scheduled for May, will also go online. The fundraiser will now be July 25 with a virtual cocktail hour at 7 p.m. and live entertainment beginning at 7:30 p.m. Orlando Sentinel columnist Scott Maxwell will be one of the event’s hosts.
“We were devastated to have to forgo the in-person event,” said executive director Mitzi Maxwell, “but we are excited for the opportunity to create a live program for everyone to enjoy safely from home.”
The bash will be free to watch, though viewers will be able to donate or participate in auctions. Patrons may also support the theater by purchasing a wine basket ahead of time; the wine will be delivered to viewers’ homes to enjoy during the party.
Find more information at madcowtheatre.com. Order wine baskets, with munchies and sweets, at boxoffice.madcowtheatre.com.
Morse Museum
Although the Morse Museum will open in limited fashion on July 8, the Winter Park attraction is moving all its summer family programs online.
Targeted to children in kindergarten through fifth grade and their parents or guardians, the Morse’s free online programs focus on American glass artist and designer Louis Comfort Tiffany and the diversity of his work. They can be found beginning July 8 at morsemuseum.org/createexplore.
The web page also offers art activities, lesson plans, videos and access to other glass-related information.
Emergence Dance
Emergence Dance Company founder Cindy Heen still hopes to present a 2020 dance festival, although most likely in an online format. Meanwhile, a fundraising campaign is underway, and she has created a short film titled “Wake Up; Awaken” to showcase the company. Watch it at gofundme.com/ f/-emergence-dance-companyawaken.