Toledo Opera has announced its annual fundraising event, “Opera Gala: A Tribute to Suzanne Rorick.”

This year’s event will pay tribute to the legacy of Rorick, who retires after thirteen years as Toledo Opera’s Executive Director. James M. Norman and Kevin Bylsma were appointed to the roles of General Director and Artistic Director, respectively. They begin their duties on May 31.

Following a cocktail hour, Toledo Opera will present an evening of songs and arias with guest soloist, tenor Victor Robertson. He will be joined by the 2023-24 Toledo Opera Resident Artists, Sara Mortensen, Imara Miles, Jon Suek, Evan Fleming, and pianist Steven Naylor. Singers will perform a variety of solo selections ranging from classical opera to Broadway selections. They will be accompanied by Bylsma and Steven Naylor. During dinner tribute speeches and a paddle raise for Toledo Opera in Rorick’s honor. Bylsma will also serve as Master of Ceremonies.

“We are very excited to honor Suzanne and her years of stewarding Toledo Opera with this gala,” shared Norman in a press release. “We hope her colleagues and friends will share their support and purchase a ticket to make this gala a splashy send-off for a much beloved fixture of the Toledo area non-profit world.”

The Gala is held at the Toledo Club on May 3. Proceeds for the evening will benefit the Toledo Opera’s Resident Artist program.