On December 10, Opera Naples invites you to enter a world where opera, circus and illusion collide at “Circus of Illusions: A Pagliacci Gala,” the company’s signature annual fundraising event. Led by Gala Chairs Connie Leon and David Houghton and Honorary Chair Senator Kathleen Passidomo, the evening promises an extraordinary celebration inspired by Ruggero Leoncavallo’s dramatic masterpiece, I Pagliacci.
Beginning at 6 p.m., guests will enjoy an exclusive preview of Opera Naples’ upcoming I Pagliacci, featuring principal singers from the March 2027 fully staged production. The opera’s themes of passion, jealousy and betrayal provide the perfect inspiration for an evening where spectacle and reality intertwine.
The drama begins during cocktail hour, when the Southwest Florida Circus Company brings the spirit of the circus to life with special entertainment created around the “Circus of Illusions” theme. Guests will enjoy an elegant dinner as well as live and silent auctions featuring exceptional experiences and treasures. Beyond the excitement of bidding, every purchase helps support the future of opera and arts education in Southwest Florida.
The evening will culminate with dancing and live entertainment by The Brett Foreman Band.
At the heart of the celebration is Opera Naples’ mission to make the arts accessible and inspire the next generation. Guests will enjoy a special performance by the Opera Naples Youth Company, representing the young artists whose talents are nurtured through the organization’s educational programs.
Proceeds from the gala support Opera Naples’ performances and education initiatives, which reach more than 4,000 students and seniors each year. Gala support also helps sustain the Opera Naples Youth Company, Summer Youth Program, Resident Artists Program and the Luciano Pavarotti Foundation Opera Naples International Voice Competition.
The gala comes during an exciting 2026/27 season featuring eight opera titles across five productions, along with concerts, ballet and the seventh annual Festival Under the Stars. Spanning centuries and musical styles, the season showcases both celebrated works and exceptional emerging singers, including winners of Opera Naples’ international voice competition.
And fittingly, I Pagliacci will return as part of the Festival Under the Stars in March 2027. With its unforgettable music and story of performers whose lives become dangerously intertwined with their roles, the opera perfectly embodies the spirit of “Circus of Illusions."
For opera lovers, philanthropists and anyone seeking a memorable Naples experience, this gala offers an evening of circus artistry, fine dining, world-class opera, auctions and dancing—all while supporting a vital cultural institution.
At a Premier Private Club in Naples
Individual tickets: $550, Tables start at $5,000
Tickets, tables and sponsorship opportunities are available through Opera Naples. Call (239) 844-SING or visit operanaples.org