Ciccone Vineyard & Winery invites you to enjoy the first live operatic recital ever at the historic City Opera House in Traverse City. The “Operatic tribute to Mario Lanza” will take place on Friday October 28th, 2011 at 7pm. Known as “The Grand Old Lady”, the City Opera House will serve as a classic setting (built in 1892) to this astounding tribute featuring Aaron Caruso as Lanza, Eva Evola as Kathry Grayson, Kimberly Swan as Frances Yeend and Dino Valle as George London.

Between 1947 and 1948, Mario Lanza, Frances Yeend and George London “The Bel Canto Trio” under Columbia management artists performed in over 86 concerts. Mario Lanza literally took the country by storm. He went on to perform at the Hollywood Bowl. That evening, Louis B. Mayer heard Mario Lanza and signed him on the spot to a seven year contract with MGM. Mario was paired with the young soprano Kathryn Grayson to perform “That Midnight Kiss, and The Toast of New Orleans”.

Dino Valle was the winner of the Mario Lanza award. Aaron Caruso has played Mario Lanza on Broadway. He also attended four years of schooling at the Interlochen Arts Academy. Both Valle and Caruso have been keeping the memory of Mario Lanza alive for years. This October marks the 52nd anniversary of his death as well as his 90th birthday.

Tier 1 ($45) ticket holders are invited to an Afterglow reception following the performance with complimentary hors du oeuvres from Tuscan Bistro, and wines from Ciccone Vineyard and 45 North, as well as refreshments from Tabone Vineyards and Orchards.

Special pricing: Reserved Seat (Tier 1) includes Afterglow Reception are $45.00

Student tickets: Students (Tier 2) are $25.00

Purchase your tickets at the City Opera House today!