Tosca Closes Out Florentine’s Season

April 17, 2026 (Milwaukee, WI) — The Florentine Opera: Experience a whirlwind of political intrigue and operatic intensity as The Florentine Opera presents Puccini’s masterpiece, Tosca, for two performances only on May 15 and 17, 2026, at the Marcus Performing Arts Center.

Set against the backdrop of 1800s Rome, Tosca follows a fiery diva, her political activist lover, and a ruthless police chief whose obsession sets a deadly trap for them all. Known for its high-stakes twists and some of the most beautiful arias in the repertoire, this production promises enough drama to keep even the toughest cynic on the edge of their seat.

A Powerhouse Cast and Creative Team

The production features an elite ensemble of world-class talent, led by Ann Toomey in the iconic title role of Floria Tosca. Joining her as the passionate Mario Cavaradossi is Chaz’men Williams-Ali, returning to the Milwaukee stage following his acclaimed turn as Rodolfo in the 2024 La Bohème. The formidable and sinister Baron Scarpia will be portrayed by world-renowned Alfred Walker.

Ann Toomey: A celebrated soprano praised for her “luminous” voice, Toomey has graced prestigious stages including the Lyric Opera of Chicago and the Ensemble of the Wiener Staatsoper, specializing in powerhouse dramatic roles.

Chaz’men Williams-Ali: Returning to the Milwaukee stage following his acclaimed performance as Rodolfo in La Bohème, the dynamic tenor is known for his vocal brilliance and emotive storytelling at major houses across the country.

Alfred Walker: The versatile bass-baritone is world-renowned for his commanding stage presence and “inky bass-baritone and clear projection”, frequently performing at the Metropolitan Opera and major international houses in the world’s most demanding roles.

• Conducted by: Francesco Milioto
• Stage Directed by: David Radamés Toro
• Featuring: The Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra and The Florentine Opera Chorus
• Special Appearance: Schools on Stage –St. Anthony School, La Escuela Fratney, Ronald Reagan High School, and Golda Meir School

A Milestone for “Schools on Stage”

This production marks the fifth anniversary of the Florentine Opera’s Schools on Stage program, and a historic first: for the first time, students from four different Milwaukee schools will join forces on the mainstage. This year’s production features students from:

• St. Anthony School
• La Escuela Fratney
• Ronald Reagan High School
• Golda Meir School

Schools on Stage offers Milwaukee students the rare opportunity to engage directly with world-class artists, providing a professional platform that fosters confidence and creativity. The Florentine is deeply committed to diversity, ensuring that every student feels welcomed and sees themselves reflected in our cast, crew, and staff. By bringing these diverse voices together, the program empowers students to continue occupying creative spaces and making the arts a lifelong pursuit.

“Love Conquers All… But Not Before a Little Murder”

“Tosca is the ultimate operatic thriller,” says Maggey Oplinger. “You get some of the greatest melodies ever written, romance, political espionage, murder, and betrayal. Movies have nothing on this operatic thriller! In our season of villains, we’ve relished all of their bad behavior. Alfred Walker as Scarpia brings this to an entirely boo-worthy level of abuse of power and blackmail. I can’t wait to hear the audience’s response. ”

Performance Information

What: Tosca by Giacomo Puccini
When: Friday, May 15th at 7:30pm and Sunday, May 17th at 2:30pm
Where: Uihlein Hall | Marcus Performing Arts Center
Tickets: Tickets are available at florentineopera.org or by calling (414) 291-5700.

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.

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