English Breakfast

Opera on the North Fork of Long Island? Yes. All summer long, opera events are taking place, some well publicized, others, not. It’s one thing to enjoy opera, quite another to enjoy it in the beautiful bucolic setting of wine country. One of my fondest memories was listening to members of the Opera of the Hamptons performing in the pavilion behind Pindar Winery. It was a hot but clear summer night and the sun was setting just beyond the field of sunflowers as the talented troupe performed aria excerpts from Puccini’s “La Boehme, ” in particular, “O Soave Fanciulla.” The amazing music, which has endured through the ages, and the gorgeous setting combine to create an experience the finest opera houses of Europe would be hard pressed to duplicate.

This weekend’s opera at Duckwalk Vineyards honors Dr. Herodotus Damianos, a patron of the arts and a supporter of Opera of the Hamptons from their very first performance. Everyone knew he was a real Opera Lover, and especially fond of the works of Puccini. His influence and love of opera credits him as being one of the North Fork’s earliest supporters of this type of open air opera. Performing at this opera will be the incomparable soprano, “Cristina Fontanelli and Her Fabulous Friends”:”From Opera To Broadway, ” Saturday, July 18. There’s dancing at Claudio’s on Saturdays and Sundays, and refreshing walks at dusk through Mitchel Park and Marina.

And, did we mention the many pristine beaches on the North Fork?

Quintessentials is offering the “1, 2, 3 Summer Skincare Special” to help you get your skin beach-ready now. Treat yourself to the pineapple, coconut body scrub, a deep cleansing and hydrating herbal facial, and an hour-long rejuvenating massage. Your skin will glow healthy. It’s a good thing. Call Quintessentials Spa at 631-477-9400