Pictured: Sarasota Opera's next Mini Event, "A Bit of India", takes place Thursday, February 13.

Food has long been a bridge between cultures, a way to connect people through shared flavors, traditions and experiences. Sarasota Opera’s Mini Events series embraces this idea, offering intimate, themed gatherings that celebrate global cuisine while also bringing the community together, all in support of the opera. This season’s “Around the World” theme takes guests on a journey through international flavors, fashion and entertainment.

“These events are a great way to both forge new and deepen longer relationships,” says Mini Event Chair Aline Blanchard. Blanchard has developed lasting friendships through her opera circle and has brought back the Mini Events as a way to connect not only opera enthusiasts, but also other people who are interested in making friends and developing relationships in the Sarasota community.

There are four upcoming events currently in the works, but the intention is that more Mini Events will be added to the calendar throughout the year. For more information or to reserve your tickets, visit the Sarasota Opera House website.

A Bit of India in Sarasota
Host Stella Sookdeo Pla invites guests to a private home to experience a bit of Indian culture. This intimate event will include a fashion show with lenghas, shalwars, saris, and Indian jewelry. Learn how to wrap a sari and enjoy culturally traditional finger foods, desserts, and music.

Wine Dinner at Michael’s Wine Cellar
Tenor Hak Soo Kim is renowned for his performances at Sarasota Opera and on other stages. He’s also a certified sommelier and has worked at some of New York City’s finest restaurants, including Thomas Keller’s restaurant Per Se. Join him at this fun, informative wine-pairing dinner hosted by Sarasota Opera at Michael’s Wine Cellar.

Maritime Morsels – A Nova Scotian Feast from the Sea, Land and Air
A unique way to experience Nova Scotian fare in a private home in southwest Florida. Hosts Jadwiga and Donald Brown have designed a menu featuring Nova Scotian cuisine from sea (lobster and other seafood), air (poultry), and land (lamb).

Argentine Adventure: Dinner, Dancing and Theatre
Hosts Rick Kerby and Jonathan Coleman invite guests to enjoy a specialty cocktail, wine or beer at Rae’s Cabaret, in the grand lobby of the Manatee Performing Arts Center, followed by a brief participatory tango demonstration, and a two-course dinner, accompanied by Argentine wines. Guests will also receive premium mainstage seating for MPACs production of the award-winning Broadway musical, Evita.

Sarasota Opera House, 61 North Pineapple Avenue, Sarasota, 941-328-1300, www.sarasotaopera.org.

Pictured: Sarasota Opera's next Mini Event, "A Bit of India", takes place Thursday, February 13.