Opera Providence has been busy this summer, performing free concerts in Providence’s Hopkins Park and rehearsing for their upcoming production of Verdi’s “La Traviata on July 18 and 20 at the Columbus Theatre, followed by Gilbert and Sullivan’s “The Mikado” on August 8, 9 and 10 at the Columbus and August 13 at Blithewold Mansion and Gardens in Bristol.

I attended the July 6 concert at Hopkins Park under sunny skies and a cool breeze. It couldn’t have been a more pleasant afternoon.

Emelia DiCola, Giovanni Formisano and Ian Pomerantz gave the large and enthusiastic audience a taste of “La Traviata” singing three arias from the opera, in addition to music by Mozart, Puccini and others.

The next free concert in the Hopkins Park series is on Sunday, July 13 from 5-6:30 p.m. and is titled “Opera to Broadway,” featuring arias from “Carmen,” ”Die Fledermaus,” “Don Giovanni” and “The Magic Flute,” in addition to songs from “Porgy and Bess” and “Carousel.” Additional free concerts will be held on July 27 and August 3.

In the case of inclement weather, Jon and Betty Berberian have graciously offered the Columbus Theatre at 270 Broadway in Providence, the scene of many fine operas in years past.

Hopkins Park is located at the intersection of Charles St. and Branch Ave., only a few blocks from the Branch Ave. exit off Route 146, and a short ride from the Cranston/Warwick area. For more information check out the Opera Providence website at www.operaprovidence.org or call 331-6060.