Anton Coppola’s opera based on an intensely political murder trial premieres in Tampa. In the 1920s, the case galvanized the world. [Photos courtesy of Tampa Bay Performing Art Center]

Cover Story
Opera and politics
Maestro Anton Coppola brings his lifelong fascination with Sacco and Vanzetti to the stage, but don't expect him to solve the case.

A case of inspiration
Anton Coppola's opera Sacco & Vanzetti joins a crowded field. There have been quite a few other artistic treatments of the case known as the "trial of the century."

Young fan sings opera's praises
If you're under 40 and you've never seen an opera, "recruiter" JL Wagner wants you.

About the production
Anton Coppola's Sacco & Vanzetti is a two-act opera with 13 scenes and a prologue.

Film
Entranced by a strange old world
The House of Mirth pulls moviegoers back to the turn of the 19th century, into a strict, aristocratic society of polite dinner parties, evenings at the opera -- and cunning allies and adversaries.

IMAX and the deep blue sea
"It's like an oasis for my heart," says Mexican-born naturalist Iliana Ortega, outfitted in a Body Glove diving suit and preparing to explore the Sea of Cortes, near the start of Ocean Oasis.

Persall's Top Five
Recent releases recommended by Times film critic Steve Persall

Family Movie Guide
The Family Movie Guide should be used along with the Motion Picture Association of America rating system for selecting movies suitable for children.

Also in Theaters
Seagal sighting

Welcome to the Times Oscar Contest, your chance not only to show off your Hollywood savvy, but also to say which of the nominated movies are your personal favorites. Play

Video

Long live rock 'n' roll
NEW RELEASES

Video: Upcoming releases and rankings
UPCOMING RELEASES

Pop
The songwriter blossoms
With success, singer-songwriter Dar Williams is finding the freedom to relax and be herself.

Team Pop Trivia
This week's winner: Trish Bowersox of Clearwater knew that Jane Wiedlin of the Go-Go's wrote Our Lips Are Sealed with Terry Hall, who was at the time singer of early 1980s British band Fun Boy Three. (Several sharp Team Pop members pointed out that Hall was previously singer for the Specials.)

Pop: Hot Ticket
Down home with Hiatt

Pop: Ticket Window
Tickets go on sale at 10 a.m. Sat. for Eric Clapton with Doyle Bramhall II and Smokestack, performing at 8 p.m. May 19 at the Ice Palace, Tampa. Tickets are $40.75-$69.50 and are available at the Ice Palace box office (813) 223-1000 or through Ticketmaster at (813) 287-8844 or (727) 898-2100.

Get Away
Get Away: Down the road
Events to watch for; details in future editions of Weekend.

Get Away: Hot Ticket
Illuminated parade

Art
Art in the evening
Art of all kinds awaits the evening visitor during Tampa's Third Thursday art walk. It's low-key, it's enjoyable and it's free.

Art: Best bets
Art critic Mary Ann Marger's recommendations for this weekend. Please refer to the Art Calendar for details.

Art: Hot Ticket
Art along the bay

Nite Out
Pop City will help channel your energy
Dancing, dining and games for grown-ups are all in one place in Channelside's Pop City.

Nite Out: Also
Here are some of the major Irish-themed parties you'll find around town for St. Patrick's Day. Check the Night Spots listings, page XXW, for more ideas.

Dine
Ah, the pleasures of old-time Florida
Fear not the fryer at Thirsty Marlin Grill & Bar, part of the wonderful revival of Palm Harbor.

Side dish
IN THE OVEN

Stage
Stage: Hot Ticket
Life remains a 'Cabaret'

Stage: On the horizon
Walsh -- Pianist Diane Walsh gives a recital of Chopin, Debussy, Haydn, Mendelssohn and Gershwin at the Tarpon Springs Performing Arts Center on March 23. $11 and $13.

Shop
A little greenery
St. Patrick's Day marks the death of the missionary who became Ireland's patron saint. Throughout the United States, it is a festival celebrated even by those who have no Irish roots. In the marketplace, we found lots of items for marking the day.

In the market
To better business