On Friday night, May 5, most people were celebrating Cinco De Mayo the traditional way, by enjoying some cerveza with their friends. I decided to take my friend Lisa with me to Cedarhurst’s La Viola restaurant to enjoy a night at the opera – and enjoy it we did.

The first Friday of each month for the last 22 years, Lino and Elsa Viola have held what they call a “monthly meeting,” which translates to a night of opera sung by four amazing performers who could not speak the “language” of opera more eloquently – soprano Carol Welker, tenor Efren Puig, baritone Lee Roisum and pianist Randy White –whose piano perfectly accompanies the three singers.

After a lavish four-course meal, the singers, along with White, perform two acts of various opera songs, followed by a third act of popular Broadway favorites. During the meal, forks and knives hit the plates and attendees discuss the upcoming performance. But when the first note on the piano is played, audience members fall silent as the singers voices echo off the walls and into their souls.

As Lisa and I sat transfixed, listening to the performances, we were truly moved by the flawless melodies and perfect pitch of the performers.

Of the nine opera songs they performed, my favorites were “Dite Alla Giovine,” which is from G. Verdi’s “La Traviata.” Sung by Welker and Roisum, the song tells the story of Violetta, who renounces all claim to her lover Alfredo for the sake of his sister. I also enjoyed “Je Crois Entendre Encore” from Bizet’s “The Pearl Fishers,” which Puig sang on his own. One of opera’s most famous arias, it tells the story of a group of fishermen who have just elected a king in Zurga, who contends with Nadir for the love of Leila. Unbeknown to both men, she has been chosen to be a virgin who will pray for the fishermen at sea. Nadir, recognizing her behind her veil, sings this song to her as an expression of his love.

After the performance came to an end, I applauded loudly while shouting “Bravo!” along with everyone else. I thoroughly enjoyed myself, and already long for more. If you’re looking for something to do right here in our neighborhood, might a suggest a night at the opera.

Grazie, Lino and Elsa. I have a feeling that you will see me each first Friday of the month for the “monthly meeting.”