July 03, 2019

Thank you for your generosity to Lyric!

This year, 11,262 donors from five continents helped inspire the next generation of opera-lovers by supporting soul-stirring musical performances for people of all ages. Your ongoing commitment to Lyric Opera of Chicago is what makes our world-class productions and arts-engagement activities possible each year. Thank you!

As we ramp up for the start of another transformative opera season, we want to express how immensely grateful we are for your generosity and reflect upon on what we’ve accomplished together this season.

Because of you, six new-to-Lyric productions premiered during the 2018/19 Season, including the third installment of our new Ring cycle, Siegfried; a magical and enchanting Cendrillon; the poignant and contemporary chamber opera An American Dream; and a record-breaking and raved-about production of West Side Story.

Because of you, 35 internationally renowned performers made their Lyric debuts, including opera stars Michael Fabiano, Nina Stemme, Siobhan Stagg, and Burkhard Fritz.

Burkhard Fritz performing in Lyric's 2018/19 production of Siegfried

Because of you, 13 members of the Patrick G. and Shirley W. Ryan Opera Center ensemble collectively performed 28 on-stage roles and understudied for an additional 35 roles.

Because of you, 9,271 students had unforgettable experiences attending Lyric's student matinee performances featuring some of the best artists of our time.

Students enjoying a matinee performance of Lyric's 2018/19 production of West Side Story

Because of you, 154 instrumentalists delighted audiences during more than 90 performances. Beyond our regular 74-piece orchestra, 42 extra instrumentalists and 38 band members filled the theater with marvelous music.

Because of you, 62 vocalists engulfed us in their magnificent sound. This season's chorus included 48 regular members, 12 core supplementary singers, and an additional 12 supplementary singers.

Because of you, 16,549 students from throughout Chicagoland area experienced Lyric’s Opera in the Neighborhoods presentations of Rhoda and the Fossil Hunt—a new opera for youth.

Students asking questions after Lyric's 2018/19 performance of Rhoda and the Fossil Hunt

We’re looking forward to seeing you at the Ardis Krainik Theatre in the fall when we kick off Lyric’s 2019/20 Season. We can’t wait to celebrate this incredible art form with you in one of the world’s most vibrant cities. Until then, thank you for making all that we do possible.

Photo credit: Kyle Flubacker, Todd Rosenberg