Lyric Opera 2024-2025 Issue 10 - Rising Stars in Concert

Lyric Opera of Chicago | 28 A Golden Celebration On February 11, 2025, more than 200 Lyric supporters gathered at The Casino Club to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of The Patrick G. and Shirley W. Ryan Opera Center at the Golden Gala. A sumptuous cocktail hour was followed by fabulously entertaining performances of operatic and popular music by members of the Ryan Opera Center Ensemble and Music Director Craig Terry — and, as a special treat, alum star tenor Matthew Polenzani sang as well. “It was a glorious evening,” says Peggy Beata, one of the event’s sponsors. “The team’s attention to detail turned the Golden Gala into the best celebration anyone could have envisioned.” Ensemble members joined Gala attendees for dinner — a treasured chance to spend time with the artists who are honing their craft in Lyric’s world-renowned artist-development program. The Gala, the first in a series of 50th Anniversary Golden Celebrations, raised more than $1.25 million in support of the Ryan Opera Center. An anniversary this significant deserves a proper party — and donors, artists, and one very special alum stepped up for a grand occasion. From top row, left to right: Ian Rucker and Ensemble members perform up-close; Philip G.Lumpkin and Amy Carbone share a laugh with John Mangum; Pam Crutchfield and Margarita Chavez-Tatro dazzled in gold gowns.Ensemble pianist Michael Banwarth and Music Director Craig Terry shared piano duties; Ryan Opera Center Board President Nasrin Thierer greets the crowd; Christopher Humbert,Jr.gets operatic; Shirley W.Ryan with special guest (and program alum) Matthew Polenzani.