The Comedy

In Mozart's era, most comic operas were broadly humorous. He and his librettist Da Ponte created works that were more complex. They called their operas "dramma giocoso" (humorous drama) rather than "opera buffa" (comic opera). While the opera is full of clever disguises, romantic mix-ups, and cheeky humor, there are deeper levels of satire, real emotion, and dramatic.

The Music

The term genius is overused, but Mozart qualifies. His music is elegant, expressive, and instantly appealing. Così fan tutte includes:

• Sparkling ensemble numbers contrasted with ensembles of great emotion (the trio "Soave sia il vento" is one of Mozart's most beautiful works).
• Heartfelt arias. The character Fiordiligi has two contrasting solos: "Come scoglio" where she defiantly proclaims her allegiance to her absent lover and "Per pietà bel'idol mio" in which she expresses her conflicted emotions.
• And the sublime sextet and finale, where emotions swirl and blend beautifully. 

The Twists and Emotions

What starts as a light-hearted bet turns into something deeper. The men begin by deceiving their paramours (egged on by their cynical friend). The women, tricked emotionally by their lovers, do not know how to react when two supposed strangers arrive, aggressively pursuing them. All the characters wrestle with real feelings, attraction, betrayal, and forgiveness - making it more than just farce.

Sarasota Opera Favorite 

Così fan tutte is one of the works most performed by Sarasota Opera. It was the opera that opened the company's first season (at the Historic Asolo Theatre) and has been included in the repertoire in nine other seasons.

You are encouraged to dress in whatever way you feel most comfortable. Some people like to make it special by dressing up. Others prefer to be more casual. Opening nights of each opera tend to be a bit more dressy (you will see more tuxes and long dresses) and matinees a bit more casual.  

One suggestion: it does tend to be cool in the theater (especially in the orchestra section) and so a sweater or wrap might be helpful.

There is limited on-street parking near the Sarasota Opera House. There are several parking garages in close proximity to the theater, including the Palm Avenue Garage (1289 N. Palm Ave.) which is directly behind the Sarasota Opera House.

Valet parking is also available for all evening and weekend matinee performances. Valet parking is complimentary for subscribers and donors. Otherwise the cost is $10.

For more information please visit https://www.sarasotaopera.org/parking.

While there is nothing objectionable in the story or characters, the themes of the opera are rather sophisticated. The complexities of the relationships may not be understandable by audience members who are not adults (although they may like the humor of Despina's disguises). 

The historic Sarasota Opera House is in downtown Sarasota at 61 N. Pineapple Street. 

For detailed directions, please visit https://www.sarasotaopera.org/directions.

There are concessions at the Opera House which sell a variety of beverages, snacks, and sandwiches.  The lobby is open 1 hour and 15 minutes before a performance, and the courtyard is open 1 hour and 45 minutes before a performance. We encourage you to come early to enjoy refreshments. No food or drink are allowed inside the auditorium.