Lyric Opera 2025-2026 Issue 12 - Rising Stars

13 | Lyric Opera of Chicago TRAVON D. WALKER The past three years in the Ryan Opera Center have been an absolute dream. Coming straight from grad school, I had no idea what was in store for this next part of my journey, and I feel incredibly thankful that I was received with such loving and supporting arms. Everyone at Lyric gave me the chance to explore the depths of not only my artistry, but also my personhood. All the time spent on stages, in practice rooms, and in rehearsal rooms watching the greats of our time, has fostered growth and development that I never believed possible — and all these lessons will stay with me for many years to come. I owe so much to my family at Lyric, and I can’t wait to share with the world all that I’ve learned from them. CHI-YUAN LIN These two years at the Ryan Opera Center have been truly transformative. Working at Lyric Opera of Chicago, I’ve been immersed in such an inspiring environment, where every artist strives for excellence while fostering genuine kindness. Conducting in the pit with the Lyric Opera Orchestra has been a life-changing experience. Step by step, I have learned how to collaborate more deeply with everyone in the room, broaden my artistry, and discover subtle nuances within each piece of repertoire. I am deeply grateful to the mentors and coaches who have helped me explore my potential. Most importantly, thank you to my beloved Ryan Opera Center colleagues for your support on and off the stage with laughter, care, and love. Your passion and fearless spirit are things I will carry with me wherever I go. My sincerest gratitude to everyone who has contributed to making my time here possible! Kyle Flubacker Kyle Flubacker FINN SAGAL With family based here, I’ve been visiting Chicago for much of my life. When I began studying voice, the dream of being surrounded by loved ones while working at such an iconic opera house began to take shape but seemed unlikely. Having that dream come true at the Final Auditions knocked me off my feet! That life-changing moment was the start of an incredible journey that has been beyond what I ever imagined. Every day spent at Lyric Opera of Chicago is filled with the inspiration to grow and make incredible art. I have been so fortunate to be a part of this program with extraordinary peers and colleagues. These past two years have shaped my artistry and character in ways I will never be able to repay. I can only say that I am forever thankful for the Ryan Opera Center and all of those who make this program possible. EMILY RICHTER The Ryan Opera Center is such a special place. It’s a true privilege to be at Lyric and be immersed in artmaking at the highest level, and it’s an honor to be surrounded by incredible artists and call them your peers. The Ryan Opera Center has created such an exceptional environment that has made me feel challenged, pushed, loved, and supported. It’s a magical and humbling experience to find depths of yourself and of singing and expression that you didn’t know you were capable of. To experience that at Lyric in the company of senior colleagues you admire is a once-in- a-lifetime opportunity, one that has been transformational for me personally and artistically. A huge thank you to this community for showing me what’s possible and for launching me into the next phase of my life and career! Liz Lauren Kyle Flubacker Emily Richter, center, in The Marriage of Figaro with Ying Fang and Sarah Mesko. Travon D. Walker, center, with Kenneth Kellogg and Zoie Reams in Blue.