From the Stage to the Runway
In the realm of artistic expression, few mediums can claim a history as rich and varied as opera. Dating back to the late 16th Century, this musical form has evolved alongside the ever-changing currents of classical music. Opera, with its roots deeply embedded in various forms of song and theatrical performances, represents a timeless expression of human creativity, encompassing drama, music, dance, and other art forms practiced since prehistoric times.
Continuing the tradition of the art form’s evolution, Pensacola Opera is set to break new ground with its collaborative event, Rock the Runway, a musical fashion-fusion spectacle featuring members of the star-studded musical show, Rock Me Amadeus Live, originally performed in New York City. This unique event, scheduled for Feb. 22, at Vinyl Music Hall, promises to meld the worlds of rock music, opera, and fashion in a way that transcends the ordinary.
As for what inspired such a unique event, Pensacola Opera’s General Director Chandra McKern explains, “There is no question that fashion and opera have a long history. The inspiration for having a musical fashion show was simply to unite the overlapping worlds of opera and fashion. Opera-goers know that fashion and costume design are crucial components of opera. Rock the Runway was centered around world-renowned operatic soprano Alyson Cambridge. In addition to her opera career, she is a crossover artist who sings in a variety of styles. New York City’s musical show Rock Me Amadeus Live was co-created and co-produced by Alyson. She is also known for her work as a professional model, actress, and host with four agencies that represent her for print and on-camera commercial modeling. Pensacola Opera wanted to present a musical fashion-fusion event that was entertaining but also true to the mission of our organization while attracting new diverse audiences. We wanted to make sure that we weren’t simply cultivating an audience for strictly a fashion show, but also getting them to an opera event where we have the possibility of generating new opera lovers.”
And with all that, attendees can expect more than just the traditional spectacle of an opera — encompassing sets, costumes, special effects, props, and staging. And it will certainly be more than just a typical fashion show, it will be “fashion theater.” Chandra elaborates, “Rock the Runway attendees can expect a unique musical fashion experience combining opera costumes created by Wardrobe Witchery and looks inspired by the featured opera characters put together from local boutiques and stores.” Guests will be entertained by featured castmates of Rock Me Amadeus Live performing your favorite rock and classical songs reimagined and brought to life together like never before. They will bring the grandeur of symphonic classical music, the opulence of opera, and the powerful emotions and nostalgia of rock and pop songs into one electrifying experience.
“Set assumptions aside, and plan to be mesmerized by what talented individuals brought together can cook up to entertain the community,” Chandra says. “There will be a higher level of production value associated with this event, so it isn’t just a standard fashion show, it’s an experience.”
Elevating the experience even more, Alyson was able to book some of her castmates from Rock Me Amadeus Live to come to Pensacola for Rock the Runway including drummer Brian Delaney and Australian rock vocalist Toby Rand, who will all be performing several musical numbers. Along with Alyson, the show will also feature local models on the runway. The event's Chair, Madrina Ciano, is selecting all the local boutiques and stores being showcased in the event such as Dillard’s for the opera-inspired looks on the runway.
Downtown Pensacola’s Vinyl Music Hall will be the perfect venue to be filled with the sounds of iconic rock and pop songs from your favorite bands from the 70s, 80s, and 90s melded with operatic masterpieces to create an experience unlike anything seen in Pensacola. The space provides an intimate setting for live music and entertainment and can truly be transformed into a masterpiece of art.
Behind the scenes, there are certainly some key people responsible for putting this event together: Madrina Ciano, Chair of the Event; Jennifer Knisbell, Co-Chair; Jan Miller, Sponsorship Chair; Pensacola Opera staff members; Chandra McKern, General Director; Corey McKern, Artistic Director; Joe Rich Beauty, makeup; Opera Costumes designed by Wardrobe Witchery and Wigs designed by Brittany Rappise. All of which have pulled together to create a top-notch event that will undoubtedly have the community talking long after the curtain call.
Although the unique experience is reason enough to get excited about Rock the Runway, it’s also all for a great cause. All proceeds will directly support professional opera performances and educational programs that enrich the culture of the Pensacola community.
So mark those calendars! Tickets are sure to sell out fast for this can't-miss fashion theater celebration bringing together the best of the worlds of opera, rock, and style. It's time to Rock the Runway, Pensacola style!