August 19, 2021 – In January 2000, soprano Barbara Norris and her husband Anthony Fast produced a concert titled An Evening of Opera, leading to the formation of First Coast Opera in Saint Augustine. Serving Northeast Florida’s First Coast region, the company began a series of concerts and staged productions of operas and operettas featuring local talent. Before relocating to North Carolina, the founders hosted their final concert with the company, aptly titled Addio! in May 2008.
The only producing opera company in Northeast Florida, First Coast Opera is a leading arts voice and active arts partner in the region. In 2015, FCO partnered with other arts organizations to commemorate the City of Saint Augustine’s 450th Anniversary with a festive concert at the local Amphitheatre. FCO has been a frequent collaborator with Flagler College, Stetson University Opera, University of North Florida Opera Theatre, St. Augustine Music Festival, Lightner Museum, A Classic Theatre, Romanza Festivale of the Arts, St. Augustine Orchestra, St. Augustine Community Chorus, St. Augustine Art Association, St. Augustine Youth Chorus, and Limelight Theatre.
It is the mission of First Coast Opera to serve Northeast Florida with professional opera performances for the education, cultural enhancement, and enjoyment of our communities, combining artistic excellence and the development of local and regional talent.