The Florentine Opera's production of Vincenzo Bellini's "I Capuleti e I Montecchi" ("Romeo and Juliet") runs this weekend and according to Florentine's Amy Erato, the three performances -- 7:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday and a 2:30 Sunday matinee -- are dedicated to Dominic Frinzi, who passed away earlier this year.

Frinzi, a local attorney who twice ran for governor and was deeply committed to the local Italian-American community that he was born into, was also a passionate opera buff, to say the least.

"The Florentine Opera Company is honored to dedicate this production ... to Dominic Frinzi," says Erato. "Dominic was a member of the Florentine's Board of Directors from 1998 until his death in January of this year.

"This is the first time in the Florentine's history that a Bellini opera has been produced. Dominic was a life-long student of Italian opera and had tirelessly promoted his wish that the Florentine present a work by Signore Bellini. He was eagerly awaiting this production and it is with deep respect for the memory of Dominic that this opera is presented in tribute to him."

So, not only can you see a great production and Bellini's coming-out party at the Florentine, you can also join the company in saluting a landmark personality on Milwaukee's opera scene.