The waltz was once considered a shocking dance, “riotous and indecent,” but as time went on, its elegance became fashionable — not just among Viennese society, but around the world.
The waltzes of Johann Strauss Jr. became the symbol of a musical revolution and on Saturday, Nov. 3, Miami’s civic and social leaders will join the Young Patronesses of the Opera (YPO) and chair ladies — president Kristin Podack, Susan Feldman, Gail Piñon and Valerie Ricordi — to celebrate the music of Vienna at the “Tales from the Vienna Woods” Gala.
The annual YPO Gala — now in its 57th year — is considered among the city’s oldest and most prestigious black-tie affairs. Held in early November, the elegant soiree is arguably the kickoff to the Miami social season that runs November through April and typically features live entertainment and performances.
The “Tales from the Vienna Woods” Gala will take place at the Coral Gables Country Club, beginning at 6:30 p.m. The night will start with cocktails with Viennese favorites sponsored, organized, and performed by FGO concertmaster Scott Flavin and guest artists, as well as a silent auction followed by a beautiful music program and dinner.
Favorites like Strauss’ The Blue Danube along with music from City Lights will fill the ballroom while guests in elegant black tie and elaborate gowns dance and are whisked away by the sound. The enchanting evening will unite the ambiance of old world Vienna with devoted YPO supporters, whose adoration for the opera has taken the organization to incredible heights over the decades.
“The waltz is an elegant and enchanting form of dance,” Podack said. “This lovely theme lends itself to the beautiful music of Strauss, Kreisler, and the other great Viennese composers. It is certain to uplift and inspire Miami’s most distinguished philanthropists to whirl across the dance floor in support of opera education.
“We are so grateful to this year’s gala sponsors — Swanee DiMare, Bunny Bastian, and Dr. and Mrs. Sanford Ziff — for their generous support.”
Founded 57 years ago, YPO is a nonprofit group of women who work without staff to advocate educational music programs and the Florida Grand Opera. Proceeds raised from the gala fund music and opera educational programs, including a workshop for more than 500 Girl Scouts and an annual Teachers’ Workshop which offers continuing education credits for 150 Miami-Dade and Broward County teachers on opera education in the classroom.
YPO’s dedicated group of volunteers bring professional children’s opera performances to more than 25,000 elementary school students annually. YPO will sponsor the YPO/FGO 27th National Voice Competition at the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts on Apr. 26 and 27, 2013. The voice competition awards gifted young opera singers.
For more information about YPO or the 2012 “Tales from the Vienna Woods” Gala, visit online at www.YPOMIAMI.org or call 305-285-1477.
