ORLANDO, Fla., March 5, 2025 – This spring, Central Florida Vocal Arts (CFVA) and Opera del Sol brings to life The Ballad of Baby Doe, a breathtaking American opera that tells a timeless story of love, ambition, and resilience set against the backdrop of the Colorado Silver Boom. With direction by the acclaimed Eric Pinder and music direction by Philip King, this production revitalizes one of the most beloved contemporary operas, delivering a powerful, immersive theatrical experience.
At the heart of The Ballad of Baby Doe is Elizabeth “Baby” Doe, portrayed by Voices of Liberty singer Molly Nicholson. Audiences will follow Baby Doe’s journey from humble beginnings to her passionate yet tumultuous relationship with silver magnate Horace Tabor, sung by Kenny Nisbett (Pirates of Penzance, Scalia/Ginsburg). As love and ambition collide, this deeply moving opera explores the highs and lows of a woman who defied societal expectations and persevered through triumph and tragedy.
Composed by Douglas Moore with a libretto by John Latouche, this operatic gem has captivated audiences since its premiere in 1956. Opera del Sol’s production features a stellar cast, including local favorites David Bacamonte (Dracula, A Little Night Music), Giovanni Murro (The Light in the Piazza), and Angela Tims (Dracula). Rising young stars Lyric Carden and Anais Nisbett will debut as Young Elizabeth and Silver Dollar, adding fresh energy to the production. Audiences can expect breathtaking orchestrations and unforgettable arias, including the iconic Willow Song and Silver Aria, making this a poignant and powerful experience for opera lovers and newcomers alike.
This production is made possible in part by Orange County Government through the Arts & Cultural Affairs Program, whose generous support allows CFVA to continue bringing high-quality, accessible performances to Central Florida audiences.
What: Opera del Sol presents The Ballad of Baby Doe
When: Friday, April 25 at 8:00 PM & Sunday, April 27 at 3:00 PM
Where: The Dr. Phillips Center – Alexis & Jim Pugh Theatre, 445 S. Magnolia Ave., Orlando, FL 32801
Tickets: www.CentralFloridaVocalArts.org/events/baby-doe
Experience More: Exclusive Preview & Talk-Back Events
Beyond the full-stage production, CFVA will also host two free preview events featuring lecture recitals and discussions. Led by Carolyn Moor, founder of the Modern Widows Club, these events will explore the opera’s themes of love, loss, and resilience, drawing real-world connections to the power of perseverance and community support. Both preview events are free and open to the public, with registration encouraged.
Wednesday, April 2, 2025 at 6:00 PM
Where: The Center For Health and Wellbeing, 2005 Mizell Ave, Winter Park, FL 32792
Register: https://yourhealthandwellbeing.org
Wednesday, April 9, 2025 at 7:00 PM Where: The Winter Park Library, 1052 W. Morse Blvd, Winter Park, FL 32789
Register: https://www.winterparklibrary.org/
About Central Florida Vocal Arts and Opera del Sol:
Central Florida Vocal Arts (CFVA) & Opera del Sol transform the community through arts education for all and professional performances that inspire. Guided by core values of excellence, equity, impact and inclusivity, they are dedicated to reimagining opera and music theater for modern audiences. CFVA is a nonprofit 501c3, dedicated to creating equitable arts access and a kinder, more connected Central Florida through the power of music.