Ryan Opera Center alumni

Alumni perform on our own stage and on stages across the globe

Nearly 300 artists have trained at The Patrick G. and Shirley W. Ryan Opera Center since its inception in 1974. A testament to the program's caliber is the impressive roster of distinguished alumni who perform regularly at Lyric and on the stages of other leading opera houses around the globe.

Get to know some of our most acclaimed alumni who prove the value of this unique and intensive training program.

Notable Ryan Opera Center alumni

Alumni testimonials

Lucy Baker

Lucy Baker

Joining the Ryan Opera Center was an absolute dream come true for me. As a student at DePaul, many of my mentors were alumni of the program, and I wanted the same experience that guided them to become world-class performers and teachers. I also attended many Lyric performances — the company became an artistic home. Coming back and getting to sing on the Lyric stage, I was completely overcome with emotion. Every moment spent here, on stage with my Ensemble colleagues, in a rehearsal room with the greatest opera stars of our time, or alone in a practice room, I have learned something. Every day, I discover new artistic abilities, explore new and unexpected repertoire, and build my confidence in what makes me special as a performer. I am so fortunate that Lyric has played such an integral part in my journey, and I feel ready for the next step, thanks to everything I learned during my time with the Ryan Opera Center. Thank you to every person who makes dreams like mine come true!

Gemma Nha

Gemma Nha

This past year in the Ryan Opera Center, I have learned and grown so much as a singer. Working with the program’s teachers and coaches helped me to step fully into my voice. I am very grateful for all the opportunities I’ve had to sing on the Lyric stage and be in the rehearsal room with world-class singers, directors, and conductors. I came to realize that everyone involved knows that Lyric Opera of Chicago is a special place. As an Ensemble member, I have been able to explore and utilize all aspects of my artistry and sing in venues I never would have dreamed of performing in. Most importantly, I am so blessed to have been surrounded by the most wonderful people, all of whom have supported me every step of the way. Thank you for a most extraordinary year in Chicago.

Sophia Maekawa

Sophia Maekawa

Since I moved to the United States for college, I’ve dreamed of joining the Ryan Opera Center. I still remember the Final Auditions like it was yesterday — arriving in Chicago and immediately falling in love with the city and its gorgeous opera house. Through the program’s high-level training, I’ve gained many valuable tools and developed my artistic identity. Coming from Japan and its different culture, a major task was to come out of my shell and be more comfortable openly expressing myself. I am so thankful for the opportunities to perform on the Lyric stage, especially the role of Tisbe in Cinderella. It grounded me as a singer and allowed me to explore my acting — and I had the best time! I cannot express how grateful I am for the guidance and support of the Ryan Opera Center’s faculty, administration, my sponsors, and my colleagues. They all have made a huge impact on my development and career path, which I hope leads me back to Chicago very soon!

Ian Rucker

Ian Rucker

I have always been enamored with Chicago and known that it was going to be important to me, so it’s been especially meaningful to make the city my home and cultivate my artistry at Lyric. The past three years in the Ryan Opera Center have been the experience of a lifetime: the incredible training and performing activities have helped me significantly elevate my skills, and I’ve been encouraged to sing with MY natural and unique voice. Through the support of my colleagues, coaches, and mentors, I’ve felt able to be open and vulnerable. That isn’t easy and can be scary, but I have never felt more comfortable in my own skin, wholly accepted as the person and artist that I am. For that and so much more that I have gained from my time here, I am thankful beyond words.

Provide the stars of tomorrow with your support today

Provide the stars of tomorrow with your support today

The Patrick G. and Shirley W. Ryan Opera Center prepares emerging artists for careers in opera by providing unique, comprehensive training. Your gift helps offset the expense of maintaining the high quality of Lyric’s stellar professional artist-development program.

Donate now

Header photo: Ryan Opera Center alumna Kayleigh Decker in conversation with emcee LaRob K. Rafael at Final Auditions (2023). 
Credit: Kyle Flubacker