Opera Orlando set for Feb. 15; board weighs outreach and annual event possibilities

Board members promoted an Opera Orlando performance scheduled for Feb. 15 at 11 a.m. at Oviedo On The Park and discussed outreach plans, advertising channels and the possibility of using CRA funding to make musical programming an annual event.

Marketing and outreach: Board members said the city has posted a digital flyer on Facebook and sent e-blasts, but the board could not fund a banner specific to the opera. Members discussed city-managed signboards (including the mobile trailer sign on Mitchell Hammock), the possibility of placing flyers at the amphitheater and distribution through local music schools, libraries and schools. Staff offered to print flyers at the meeting for board members to distribute.

Annual event and programming: Theresa proposed asking the CRA to support an annual concert series — not necessarily opera every year — to sponsor family-friendly performances at the amphitheater. Board members discussed possible formats including a jazz day spanning middle school through university groups, a seasonal choral series, and inviting existing community music organizations to perform. Several members cautioned about staffing, insurance and facility logistics; Parks & Recreation and events staff handle the amphitheater calendar and event coordination, and some members said those departments are already near capacity.

Accessibility and cost notes: Board members noted that school ensembles face costs to appear at Oviedo On The Park (staff cited costs in the thousands for school performances) and discussed ways the board or CRA might help underwrite at least one funded performance for which the city covers facility-related expenses.

Next steps

Board members agreed to assist with outreach for the Feb. 15 Opera Orlando performance, print flyers for distribution, and to pursue a more formal proposal to the CRA for future annual programming if staff and the CRA agree to budget for ongoing operational costs.