All Rise for the Florentine Opera

June 30, 2025 (Milwaukee, WI) — This summer, The Florentine Opera enters new territory with its first-ever summer production: Derrick Wang’s clever and comedic Scalia/Ginsburg. Performed in English and running just 60 minutes, this opera offers a fast-paced, funny, and surprisingly heartfelt look at two of the Supreme Court’s most iconic—and ideologically opposed—justices.

In a bold departure from traditional venues, Scalia/Ginsburg will be staged at the Marquette University Law School’s Lubar Center—selected specifically to immerse audiences in the courtroom setting where these legal giants made their mark.

Performance Schedule:

• Friday, July 18, 2025 at 7:30 PM
• Saturday, July 19, 2025 at 7:30 PM
• Sunday, July 20, 2025 at 2:30 PM

“This summer show is a first for us,” said Maggey Oplinger, General Director and CEO. “We wanted to kick off our 92nd season with something unexpected—something smart, funny, and perfectly timed for a city that loves its legal dramas. Presenting this opera in an actual courtroom gives audiences the chance to experience the piece in a totally immersive way.”

“Who are we to judge and be judged? For me, this is the question at the heart of Scalia/Ginsburg. In the years since this opera was first introduced to the public, the United States and its Supreme Court have seen significant change. Nevertheless, if this work continues to connect with audiences in these changing times, it is a testament to the idea that ideological disagreements can be tempered by mutual respect and recognition of our common humanity. I am delighted, then, that the Florentine Opera is bringing Scalia/Ginsburg to the Milwaukee community.” Derrick Wang Composer and Librettist, Scalia/Ginsburg

Director Doug Clemons returns to the Florentine Opera, where his professional journey began in the chorus back in 2008. Since then, he has become a beloved presence in Wisconsin’s performing arts scene, with credits as an actor, director, choreographer, and writer across companies including Renaissance Theaterworks (Buyer & Cellar), First Stage, Skylight Music Theatre, Milwaukee Opera Theatre, Forward Theater, and more. Known for his sassy charm and theatrical range, Clemons continues to bring joy, insight, and heart to every production he touches.

On the podium is conductor Robert Mollicone, returning to the Florentine after his 2024 debut with Songbird. Hailed for his “finely-calibrated leadership” and “ebullient performance[s],” Mollicone is a sought-after conductor, recitalist, and coach who has worked with opera companies across the U.S. and Europe. A longtime member of the San Francisco Opera’s music staff, he brings both precision and heart to new and classic repertoire alike.

All three roles—Justice Antonin Scalia, Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, and the Commentator—will be performed by members of the Florentine Opera’s 2025 Summer Studio Ensemble, a group of rising young artists known for their bold storytelling and vocal excellence. Soprano Kate Johnson and Mezzo-soprano Grace Ryan will alternate as Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. Tenor Zachary Taylor portrays Justin Antonin Scalia. And Bass-baritone William Dopp takes on the role of the Commentator.

Scalia/Ginsburg marks the soft opening of Florentine Opera’s 92nd season and offers audiences a unique summer opportunity to enjoy a nationally recognized opera company in an intimate, unconventional space.

Tickets are on sale now at www.florentineopera.org/season-events/scalia-ginsburg-25-26.

Performance Details: Dates: Friday, July 18th at 7:30 PM, Saturday, July 19th at 7:30pm, and Sunday, July 20th at 2:30 PM
Location: Marquette Law School’s Lubar Center
Tickets: Tickets for Scalia/Ginsburg are now available and can be purchased through www.florentineopera.org, emailing tickets@florentineopera.org, or calling 414.291.5700 ext. 224

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.