Lyric Opera 2025-2026 Issue 7 - A Night of Mellon Collie and Infinite Sadness

25 | Lyric Opera of Chicago avery r. young World Premiere safronia Apr. 17 & 18 Where blues, funk, and soul meet opera . Enter the world of avery r. young’s safronia , a contemporary opera that fuses jazz, gospel, and classical influences with bold storytelling. This electrifying work blends powerful voices, dynamic rhythms, and striking visuals to explore identity, desire, and the pursuit of freedom. Follow lead character safronia’s journey through love, conflict, and self-discovery, and experience an opera that challenges expectations, pushes musical boundaries, and leaves a lasting impression. For two performances only, Lyric presents the world premiere of this Afro-surrealist tale of the Great Migration, blending folklore, poetry, and music — from gospel and blues to funk and soul. A Chicago voice, a powerful tale, and an unforgettable experience. Sung in English with projected English titles. Soulful. Defiant. Visionary. Transformative. Watch more Scan this QR code to learn more about the project and get a sneak peak at the workshops with the composer. John Shaw/Lyric Opera of Chciago Simple to give. Impossible to forget. Tickets from just $33 when you buy 3 shows. Give the gift of Lyric. lyricopera.org/holiday Lyric’s presentation of Strauss’s Salome is generously made possible by Richard O.Ryan. Lyric’s presentation of Puccini’s Madama Butterfly is generously made possible by Lisbeth Stiffel, Invenergy, ITW,Randy L.& Melvin R.* Berlin, and Marion A.Cameron-Gray. *deceased Lyric’s presentation of Gabriela Lena Frank and Nilo Cruz’s El último sueño de Frida y Diego is generously made possible by the Zell Family Foundation, the Pritzker Foundation, and Ethel Gofen. Lyric’s presentation of avery r.young’s safronia is generously made possible by the PritzkerTraubert Foundation. Lyric Opera of Chicago thanks its Official Airline, United Airlines, and acknowledges support from the Illinois Arts Council. 2025/26 Presenting Season Sponsor