Dr. Lady J at Lyric

Everyone at Lyric Opera of Chicago is excited to partner with Dr. Lady J, a celebrated drag queen musicologist and historian, for engaging events that explore the connections between drag and opera. Known for her dynamic research and performances, Dr. Lady J highlights marginalized voices and celebrates LGBTQIA+ contributions to the arts. Join us for unique opportunities to experience her captivating blend of drag and music scholarship.

November 7, 2024, 7:00 PM at Center on Halsted

Melodramas of the Midwest: A History of Drag Performance in Midwestern America

Melodramas of the Midwest: A History of Drag Performance in Midwestern America

Music academia meets drag performance at the Center on Halsted! Drag queen musicologist Dr. Lady J returns after her triumphant Lyric appearances last season, this time joined by fellow music scholar and drag performer Dr. Sadie Hochman-Ruiz. Together, they’ll explore the intersections of drag and opera, while highlighting Chicago’s often overlooked influence in the drag scene.

November 8, 2024,12:00 PM at Roosevelt University

Fireside Chat

Fireside Chat

Roosevelt University is host for this lively discussion with Dr. Lady J and Roosevelt College of Performing Arts professors Dr. Ashley Pribyl and Tommy Novak. This discussion will tackle the challenges faced by LGBTQIA+ and nonbinary artists working within the industry as well as the extensive history of gender nonconformity on stage. The panelists will share their deep knowledge of queer performance art as well as their personal artistic journeys.

November 9, 2024, 6:30 PM at Lyric

Pre-opera talk

Pre-opera talk

Join us in the Ardis Krainik Theatre one hour before The Marriage of Figaro begins for a free, 30-minute talk with Dr. Lady J, known as the world's first (and only) Drag Queen with a Ph.D. in Musicology.

Seating is unreserved, but a ticket for that day’s performance is required. Talks begin one hour before each performance and doors open approximately 15 minutes before the start of the talks.

Please note, additional pre-opera talk content by Elinor Olin for The Marriage of Figaro will also available online here.

Photo of Lady J at Lyric: Bob Kusel