Opera, symphony offer world-class fine arts offerings

The Sarasota Opera and the Florida West Coast Symphony are the area's nationally renowned fine arts institutions.

Sarasota Opera House

For the past few months, the Sarasota Opera has been busy with a $20 million-dollar renovation for its opera house in downtown Sarasota. The renovation includes expansion of the lobby, house and stage areas and other enhancements.

The historic landmark began as a vaudeville theater in late 1926 and was bought by the town's opera guild in the early 1980s. In its vaudeville days, it welcomed performers such as Will Rogers and Elvis Presley.

After renovations, the opera season will begin March 1, with "Rigoletto," the story of the hunchback jester who tries to shield his daughter from the world's evils. The season continues with "La rondine," "I due Foscari" and "Cosi fan tutte."

Sarasota Opera House: 61 N. Pineapple Ave., Sarasota (941) 953-7030, www.sarasotaoperahouse.org.

Florida West Coast Symphony

Known as the oldest continuing orchestra in Florida, the Florida West Coast Symphony features a Masterworks series, chamber music, pops series, special concert events and more during its 37-week season. The group, founded in 1949, is led by conductor Leif Bjaland.

This season's highlights include a variety of guest artists - including an electric harp performer, a concert celebrating the masterpieces of the 20th century in January and a February concert featuring the music of Bernstein and Tchaikovsky.

There's also the Valentine Pops Concert that attracts many Bradenton lovebirds.

Other special programs included Great Escapes and First Night Out.

Florida West Coast Symphony: 709 N. Tamiami Trail. (941) 953-4252, www.fwcs.org.