Svetlana & The New York Collective to headline Romanza Festivale

Event brings music, theater, dance and art to life in the Nation’s Oldest City

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Romanza Festivale of Music & the Arts welcomes acclaimed international performing artist Svetlana and the New York Collective. Taking the stage at Lewis Auditorium on May 11, the group will perform “Night at the Movies,” an immersive program inspired by her chart-topping record of silver-screen hits, which soared to No. 1 on the Billboard U.S. Traditional Jazz Charts. Sultry and ethereal, with an effortless ability to convey the essence of a song, Svetlana and the New York Collective is a sure hit.

“We’re incredibly excited to welcome such a talented group of performers to Romanza Festivale,” said Albert Syeles, Romanza co-founder and president. “Our goal is to give each audience an unforgettable experience. This program does that across generations and genres. ‘Night at the Movies’ touches everyone, whether you’re a long-time jazz devotee or a small child who loves children’s musicals.”

“Nights at the Movies” invites listeners on a dynamic musical odyssey. It showcases innovative jazz interpretations of iconic movie soundtracks spanning American classics, French New Wave and European cinema, contemporary Academy Award-winners and beloved animated classics.

The program includes favorites from “The Wizard of Oz,” “Sabrina,” “Tootsie” and Disney favorites “Coco” and “The Princess and the Frog.”

Presented by Svetlana’s acclaimed New York Collective, the performance promises to captivate audiences with its blend of cinematic dreaminess and fiery musical virtuosity. Tickets begin at $35 and may be purchased at eventbrite.com.

Romanza Festivale of Music & the Arts is a 17-day festival beginning May 2 and featuring more than 30 events with talent from the world of music, dance, visual arts, theatre, spoken word and more.

The calendar features many free events, along with select ticketed experiences, held at venues throughout St. Augustine. Other headliner events are “Rach 2 by 6,” featuring the world premiere of a unique ensemble arrangement of Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto No. 2; The San Marco Chamber Players; and The Beaux Art Chamber Ensemble. These are anchored by shows featuring talented performers from across Northeast Florida, including The North Florida Women’s Chorale, Akia Uwanda, Bold City Brass, The Florida Storytelling Troupe, and the St. Augustine Concert Band.

For more information, go to romanzafestivale.com/2025-events.