25 years by the same artist
A collectors' item and a quality keepsake!
The Tulsa Ornament for 2008 honors
TULSA OPERA
(60 years - first performance December 4, 1948)
Founded as "Tulsa Opera Club" by Beryl Bliss, Bess Gowans, Mary Helen Markham and Ralph & Ione Sassano, it has grown into one of the top 10 regional operas and the 18th oldest opera company in the nation.
On December 4, 1948, with singers Ralph & Ione Sassano as lead singers, Tulsa's first opera - Verdi's La Traviata - was performed.
The back piece shows a lavish party at Violetta's Paris salon where she meets her future lover, Alfredo Germont.
The ornament's frame depicts the tudor-style doors of Central High School where the opera was performed. (Tulsa Opera moved to several venues before arriving at the Performing Arts Center in 1977.)
The front piece shows Alfredo kneeling at the foot of the terminally ill Violetta in the last scene as they sing their final duets.
50% of the artists profits are donated to charity annually
50% of this year's profits will also be given to the Tulsa Opera
Complete in red gift box with informational insert
Made of solid brass with a 24 karat gold wash
Three dimensional, 2-1/4" x 2-1/4" with front piece in 1/4" relief from body
Each year the Ornament portrays a Tulsa landmark or special event