The word on the street…

“Rather than call Florida an opera, let me call it a sung-through sinister graphic novel with libretto full of danger about community standards, revenge and seduction. All with two hours of delicious, moody jazzy and blues orchestral music. … It is sui generis.” David Siegel

“Tackling far too many weighty subjects to be comedic, Florida lays bare the grey area that exists for teenage girls between childhood and womanhood, and society’s disparate reactions to male and female innocence when exploring those desires as teenagers. The delightful mixture of opera and jazz infused into the score leaves you on wonderfully unsure footing and the incredibly strong cast make this production a must see. With piercing themes and dramatic interpretations, Florida will make you take another look at the world before you too decide who is guilty and who is innocent.”  Em Skow

“Sharin Apostolou as Florida is positively sensational in her captivating portrayal of the young girl’s lust for life and experiential coming of age. From her sensual physicality to the ease of her vocal production, Apostolou’s high energy performance leads the show with an intensity that matched that of her complex character…Florida remains a strong addition to Urban Arias’ repertoire due to the challenging yet relevant themes it poses of how today’s society perceives a woman’s sexuality.” Erin Ridge

“Sharin Apostolou was terrific playing a curious, vibrant teenager with a vivid and seemingly tireless soprano voice….The idea of a scream inside that, for lack of a better outlet, translates into bright nail polish and blood-red lips; or the number “Madly in Love,” about being in love with nobody in particular, speak strongly to the teen female experience.” Anne Midgette

“This new work has legs, and I hope it continues to grow and flourish.” Susan Galbraith