Lyric Opera of Chicago

==Lyric Opera of Chicago== Lyric Opera of Chicago is a preeminent cultural institution in Chicago, known for its transformative live opera performances that captivate audiences and resonate well beyond the final curtain. Established with a commitment to artistic excellence, Lyric Opera seeks to attract new audiences and engage diverse communities through the power of opera and compelling storytelling. The organization is dedicated to increasing the gravitational pull of the art form, the company, and the city of Chicago itself. ===History=== Lyric Opera of Chicago was founded in 1954, continuing a legacy of opera in Chicago that began with the Chicago Civic Opera. The company performs in the Lyric Opera House, originally opened as the Civic Opera House in 1929. This architectural gem was the vision of Samuel Insull, a utility magnate known as the Prince of Electricity, who aimed to create a new opera house that was democratic in scope and supported by a commercial office building. The Civic Opera House hosted various opera companies and performances until the establishment of Lyric Opera of Chicago. ===Lyric Opera House=== The Lyric Opera House, located at 20 North Wacker Drive, is one of North America's most beautiful opera houses and has been a cornerstone of Chicago's cultural landscape for generations. The building, shaped like a gigantic throne facing the Chicago River, is a majestic limestone skyscraper with a 45-story office tower and two 22-story wings. Its design is a hybrid of Art Nouveau and Art Deco styles, with the interior featuring intricate details created by American artist Jules Guerin. In 1993, Lyric Opera of Chicago purchased the theater and backstage spaces, embarking on a massive $100-million renovation to ensure the venue's ability to host world-class opera into the 21st century. The renovations, completed in phases through 1996, included updates to the stage rigging and lighting, electrical and mechanical systems, patron restrooms, and facilities for persons with disabilities. The final phase saw the complete repainting of the theater and the refurbishment of all 3,563 seats. ===Recent Developments=== In 2021, the Lyric Opera House underwent another significant renovation, introducing a new seating plan in the Ardis Krainik Theatre. This renovation was part of Lyric's Patron Accessibility Initiative, which included lush, state-of-the-art seats with an ergonomic design, a new Main Floor seating configuration for better views, wider aisles, and increased accessibility with more wheelchair-accessible seating. ===Community Engagement=== Lyric Opera of Chicago is deeply committed to the community, offering innovative learning opportunities and fostering creativity across the city. Its educational and outreach programs include student and teacher programs, family and community initiatives, and support for artistic creation and collaboration. The Ryan Opera Center, Lyric's artist training program, is an integral part of the organization, nurturing new talent and contributing to the future of opera. ===Leadership and Involvement=== The organization is led by a dedicated board and administration, with a community of artists, musicians, and the Ryan Opera Center ensemble. Lyric Opera encourages involvement through various avenues, including employment opportunities, auditions, and volunteer work. Lyric Opera of Chicago continues to celebrate and preserve the rich history of opera while innovating and adapting to ensure the art form's vibrant future. Its commitment to excellence, community engagement, and the architectural splendor of the Lyric Opera House make it a cultural beacon in Chicago and the world of opera.