SAVANNAH, GA. () – The Savannah VOICE Festival (SVF) returns for its 13th season beginning Aug. 7.

Under the theme ‘Once Upon a Time,’ this yearly festival in Savannah highlights classical voice through a variety of concerts, events, and educational programs. The Savannah VOICE Festival is an integral part of the Sherrill Milnes VOICE Programs, a project established 25 years ago by celebrated opera figure Sherrill Milnes and his wife, soprano Maria Zouves, aimed at nurturing young talent in the performing arts.

This edition of the festival introduces an array of new, family-oriented performances. The lineup includes “My Simple Wish” on Saturday, August 9, “Cinderella’s Royal Feast: A World Premiere” on Thursday, August 14, and “Once Upon a Time: Fairy Tales Come Alive” on Saturday, August 15, with all shows slated to start at 6:30 p.m.

“My Simple Wish,” composed by the distinguished David Friedman, will also take place at Asbury Memorial Church in Savannah. Friedman, acclaimed for his work in Broadway and American Song, is a celebrated conductor and arranger behind numerous iconic Disney scores, and was honored with the 1997 Johnny Mercer Award for Songwriter of the Year. Everyone is invited to attend as Friedman showcases the featured performers in a special concert, which will include beloved Disney tracks from his illustrious career.

“Cinderella’s Royal Feast: A World Premiere” by Michael Ching will be performed at the Yamacraw Center for the Performing Arts in Savannah, located at 649 W Jones Street. As a sequel to Rossini’s “La Centerentola,” Ching’s fairy tale opera transports viewers to a special party celebrating Cinderella’s wedding.

Suitable for both children and adults, the story was written with the help of Savannah-Chatham County School students. Through a collaboration with Savannah Chatham County Public School System, this will be an evening of musical whimsy and wonder for all to enjoy.

“Once Upon a Time: Fairy Tales Come Alive,” directed by Fabrizio Melano and Maria Zouves, will be performed at the First Presbyterian Church of Savannah, located at 520 Washington Avenue. The popularity of fairy tales in opera, musical theater, and song makes this an event ideal for the whole family. Attendees of all ages will be captivated by the iconic stories and styles that take place in a delightful concert of scenes.

“Everything: A Classical Cabaret” takes place at 6.30pm on Friday August 8.  Maria Zouves is well known as the Co-Founder and President of Sherrill Milnes VOICE Programs as well as a talented soprano and classical singer. Zouves will dazzle the audience with her rich vocal color and storytelling through song as well as sharing stories from her life in the world of opera and Mediterranean influences.

Joined by a five-piece band, Zouves presents beloved Broadway and cabaret songs from her newly released album entitled, “Everything.” You’ll “Get Happy” as she takes you “Over the Rainbow.”

“The Three Tenors” will feature the Sebek brothers and father at 6:30pm on Tuesday August 12 at Asbury Memorial Church performing a mix of musical genres from opera to Broadway. There are also a number of free events for the community including “VOICES in Sacred Song” at First Baptist Church, 223 Bull Street on Sunday August 10 at 5 pm. 

This celebration of inspirational music from opera, oratorio and song will feature beautiful voices and the opportunity to join in song with the “Hallelujah Chorus” from Handel’s Messiah.  Also at Savannah’s First Baptist Church a series of free master classes will give audiences an inside look at the preparation and performance of the operatic style of singing by renowned artists.

To honor Savannah Voice Festival president Sherrill Milnes’90^th birthday earlier this year, this season will especially focus on Rigoletto, one of Milnes’ great Verdi roles and will take place at 6:30 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 16 at the Asbury Memorial Church in Savannah, located at 1008 E. Henry Street.

“With Verdi’s score and a cast of exceptional vocal talent, “Rigoletto” is a tribute to the enduring strength of the Milnes VOICE legacy,” said Evelina Erickson, Executive Director of the Savannah VOICE Festival. “It’s a must-see event for anyone who not only loves classical opera but who enjoys music and drama.”

For ticket information, click here.