Katie: The Strongest of the Strong

Language: Performed in English
Composer: Faye Chiao
Librettist: Anton Dudley

Opera in the Neighborhoods returns for both school and public performances in the 2025/26 Season with Katie: The Strongest of the Strong. This powerful opera for young audiences is inspired by the true story of Katie Sandwina, a circus strongwoman who – beyond earning the title “the strongest woman in the world," and being a wife and mother – also helped to lead the women’s suffrage movement in the early 1900s. With an all-female cast, Katie: The Strongest of the Strong is a wonderful way to introduce young people to opera and the important history of women’s rights.

Show dates and locations

Fall tour

North Central College - Pfeiffer Hall - at capacity, waitlist only
310 E. Benton Ave, Naperville, IL 60540
Tuesday, October 14, 10:00 a.m.
Tuesday, October 14, 12:00 p.m.

College of Lake County
James Lumber Center for the Performing Arts
19351 W. Washington St, Grayslake, IL 60030
Thursday, October 16, 10:00 a.m.
Thursday, October 16, 12:00 p.m.

Kehrein Center for the Arts
5628 W. Washington Blvd, Chicago, IL 60644
Thursday, October 23, 10:00 a.m.
Friday, October 24, 10:00 a.m.

Northeastern Illinois University - at capacity, waitlist only
5500 N St Louis Ave, Chicago, IL 60625
Thursday, October 30, 10:00 a.m.
Thursday, October 30, 12:00 p.m.

Reva and David Logan Center for the Arts
915 E. 60th, Chicago, IL 60637
Friday, October 31, 10:30 a.m.
^{Reserve tickets directly with Logan Center for the Arts}

Spring tour dates to be announced at a later date.

RSVP with the form below. If you do not hear back from us within 7 days, please check your spam folder. Also, add [email protected] and [email protected] to you contacts to stay up to date on all student programs.

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Special requests

I have accessibility needs (hearing assistance, wheelchair access seating, etc…)

I would like to apply for a bus scholarship (Our student population qualifies for the free and reduced lunch program.)

If applying for a bus scholarship: Name of school clerk

If applying for a bus scholarship: Email of school clerk

Please contact [email protected] if you have any questions about this event.

Backstage Pass!

The Backstage Pass! is a family-friendly introduction to the world of opera and this production of Katie: The Strongest of the Strong. Filled with insights, information, and activities — the Backstage Pass! is a wonderful way to enhance your performance experience.

Download Backstage pass!

Commissioned by Houston Grand Opera. Premiered by the Houston Grand Opera in October 2020.