On Saturday, April 26, Lyric Opera of Chicago welcomed curious creatives of all ages to Explore Your Lyric, the company’s annual open house that transformed the Lyric Opera House into a choose-your-own-adventure experience. From 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., more than 1,500 guests experienced the artistry behind opera through hands-on activities, live performances, a meet and greet with Maestro Enrique Mazzola, Lyric's music director, and behind-the-scenes access to one of Chicago’s most iconic cultural landmarks.
Event Highlights
Guests explored the Ken Pigott Stage in the Ardis Krainik Theatre, the orchestra pit, and a wide variety of rehearsal spaces within the opera house while experiencing:
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Live performances of Frida Kahlo and the Bravest Girl in the World
A colorful, 40-minute youth opera presented as part of Lyric Unlimited’s Opera in the Neighborhoods program. The production told a true story of friendship, courage, and artistic inspiration through music and movement.
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Illusions by The Magic of the Spellbinder
Family-friendly magic shows from acclaimed illusionist Walter King, which blended storytelling and sleight of hand to showcase the theatrical side of opera.
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Bilingual movement workshops with Jasmin Cardenas
Interactive sessions led by storyteller and performer Jasmin Cardenas, inviting guests to explore storytelling through movement and rhythm in both English and Spanish.
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A mobile street art cart with William Estrada
A hands-on art-making station guided by visual artist William Estrada, where families created take-home pieces while learning how street art and set design intersect.
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Creative play with ¡Anímate! Studio
An interactive space where children explored the behind-the-scenes world of set building and engaged in imaginative construction and design activities.
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Instrument demos with Lyric artists
Members of the Lyric Opera Orchestra offered an up-close look at their instruments and shared insight into the sounds and skills behind each section of the ensemble.
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A "Meet the Maestro" session with Music Director Enrique Mazzola
An opportunity for guests to meet Lyric’s Music Director and learn how he brings opera to life from the conductor’s podium.
