Janet Greer is enthralled by Michael Rodgers performing the Nat King Cole classic, “Too Young.”
How’s this for a clever idea? The Marble City Opera will be performing a Valentine’s show at Holly’s Gourmet’s Market on Thursday, Friday and Saturday of next week.
But on Tuesday of this week, the opera company allowed members of the Knoxville Museum of Art Guild to invite folks to a rehearsal — featuring chocolate desserts and wine — with proceeds benefiting the KMA.
It was a light and delightful evening. The music ran the gamut from opera and musical theater to standards, even including a little Elvis.
If the rehearsal was any indication, the real events will be breathtaking. So grab your honey and get over to Bearden for one of the shows. Tickets are $75 each and can be purchased here: https://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/3569928.
Brandon Gibson, left, and Michael Rodgers practicing the song, “Drink, Drink, Drink!” from the opera, “The Student Prince.”
Dominick White performs while holding our first course — a glass of bubbly. Brandon Coffer is accompanying him.
Tom Scott and Suzanne Jack enjoying the music.
Jay and Marga McBride are art and music lovers.
As are Sheena McCall and Barbara Apking. All the ladies received roses. But many of them ended up with the musicians. (The roses; not the women!)
Case in point. Linda Haynes gave her rose to Maurice Hendricks.
Rocky Road Rice Krispies Treats — a favorite from chef Holly Hambright’s childhood — were paired with a 2016 The Royal Chenin Blanc. These were delicious, by the way.
At the first intermission, Lisa Lawson welcomed everyone to Gourmet’s Market.
Breyon Ewing wows ’em.
Love these ladies! From left, Victoria Daniel-Cape, Sandy Steer, Cathy Briscoe-Graves, Janet Bower and Gail Jarvis.
Jayne and Myron Ely snagged window seats.
Phyllis and Ely Driver.
Hazelnut truffles came with a 2012 Rock Wall Zinfandel.
Knox County Commissioner Evelyn Gill, left, and Sylvia Peters took advantage of an intermission to mingle.
Caesar Stair and LeAnne Dougherty were deep in conversation.
As were Cathy Briscoe-Graves and Gail Jarvis.
Chocolate ganache raspberry tarts came with a 2018 Beaujolais Nouveau.
Kathryn Frady is the executive artistic director of Marble City Opera and an accomplished soprano who sings all over the world.
Three beautiful women. From left, Marga McBride, Kathryn Frady and Susan Arbital.
It was a sweet, sweet evening. Perfect for Valentine’s Day. Just saying — for those looking to impress someone.
Thanks to my sweetie, Alan Carmichael.
The whole gang. From left, Dominick White, Maurice Hendricks, Michael Rodgers, Breyon Ewing, Brandon Coffer, Sarah Kinney and Lisa Lawson (both of Gourmet’s Market), Kathryn Frady and Brandon Gibson. Great job, everybody!
Here’s a short sample to get you in the mood for next week: Michael Rodgers singing, “Some Enchanted Evening” from “South Pacific.”
Thanks for highlighting a sure enough exciting cultural happening. It was a pleasure to see and hear five exceptional African American male opera singers and the AA male accompanist perform so beautifully. Kathryn Frady also sang because we pleaded with her to do so. She’s an operatic force. The rehearsal format was lovely and allowed lots of impromptu shenanigans.
Sylvia: You are right. It was so much fun! And a unique idea. Bravo to all involved!