The Sarasota Opera Guild invites you to the 38th Annual Poinsettia Luncheon to be held Wednesday, December 7, 2022 at Michael’s on East, 1212 S. East Avenue, Sarasota, starting at 11:30am. The doors will open at 11:00am. This year’s theme--Passport to Opera--reflects the international scope of this season’s Sarasota Operas, which are placed in Japan, Spain, Italy, and France. The highlight of the luncheon is a performance by Heather Johnson, mezzo soprano. Among her many credits, Ms. Johnson has performed at the Metropolitan Opera, the Boston Lyric Opera, and New York City Opera. At Sarasota Opera, she has appeared as Maddalena in Rigoletto, the title character in La Cenerentola, Elizabeth Proctor in The Crucible, Hansel in Hansel und Gretel and Beppe in L’Amico Fritz. She will be accompanied by Jesse Martins on the piano. The afternoon includes an opportunity to bid on an array of silent auction items and bountiful gift baskets. Proceeds from the annual fundraiser assist Sarasota Opera, Sarasota Youth Opera, and aspiring opera singers. Timetable: Welcome – noon: Meryl Gale, Sarasota Opera Guild President, Richard Russell, General Director Sarasota Opera. Performance – Heather Johnson, Lunch – 12:15.