Miami, FL – April 7, 2025 — On Friday, April 11th, a dynamic cross-section of cultural, entertainment, business, and government leaders will gather at Silverspot Cinema for the premiere of Vanishing Voices — a groundbreaking documentary capturing the urgent and inspiring story of Florida Grand Opera (FGO) as it redefines its place in modern society and reclaims its voice in a world where opera is too often labeled a “dying art form.”
Presented by Florida Grand Opera, one of Florida’s oldest and most treasured cultural institutions, and Vidal-Duart Enterprises, the film will debut on Friday April 11, 2025 at Silverspot Cinema (300 SE 3rd St., Miami, FL 33131 – Level 3). Red carpet arrivals and pre-screening reception begins at 7:00 PM, followed by the screening at 8:00 PM.
Directed by Nima Soofi and Leonor Anthony, Vanishing Voices documents the bold transformation underway at FGO—now in its 83rd season—as it faces the challenge of reconnecting with a modern audience. With less than 3.3% of the U.S. adult population attending opera, and opera houses worldwide struggling to fill even 60% of their seats, the stakes have never been higher.
At the heart of the story are Maria Todaro, FGO’s newly appointed General Director, and Tina Vidal-Duart, the company’s trailblazing Board Chairwoman. Together, along with a small yet passionate team, they’re leading a cultural revival—redefining the opera experience with innovation, imagination, and fearless storytelling. Their mission goes beyond the stage: they are actively educating the community about the essential role opera plays in society—and just as importantly, the role the community must play in return to ensure this art form not only survives, but thrives for generations to come. They are also developing programs that spark curiosity and excitement about the art form and how relevant it is to today’s society, especially for audiences who may have never considered opera part of their world.
As part of this revitalization, FGO has made accessibility and education central to its mission. The organization now brings over 20,000 children each season to attend live dress rehearsals, offering many students their first-ever experience of opera. The company is also creating more immersive, reimagined productions—including a recent staging of The Magic Flute, which the Miami Herald called “a monumental made-in-South Florida production.”
Vanishing Voices features exclusive appearances by Nicoletta Pavarotti, widow of the late, legendary Luciano Pavarotti, and Limmie Pulliam, who recently made history as the first African American tenor to perform Aida at The Metropolitan Opera—and who also starred as Canio in FGO’s recent production of Pagliacci.
This is more than a documentary—it’s a call to action. Vanishing Voices invites audiences to witness the rebirth of an art form and the passionate people behind its future.
Tickets and information available at: https://givebutter.com/VanishingVoices. Validated parking available at Southeast Financial Center (200 S. Biscayne Blvd) for $10.
MEDIA COVERAGE
Press wishing to cover the red carpet or arrange pre-screening interviews please contact: Joanna Black | joannab@uptomoregood.com | 646-912-2681. Press RSVP and credentials are required.
About Florida Grand Opera
Founded in 1941, Florida Grand Opera is the oldest performing arts organization in Florida and the fourth-oldest opera company in the United States. Today, FGO is ushering in a bold new era, championing innovation, access, and cultural relevance while honoring its rich legacy.