Lyric Opera 2025-2026 Issue 9 - Madama Butterfly

Lyric Opera of Chicago | 64 What was your path to working at Lyric? I started as an usher and worked my way up to mezzanine monitor. Before Lyric, I owned a business for about 20 years, worked in real estate, and served as a director in the No Child Left Behind program, mentoring students and advocating for families. Wherever I go, I don’t just do the job — I ask, How can I help? How can I improve things? Can you describe a typical day? Preparation is everything. I start on the sixth floor and work my way down, checking each level and making sure staff, bars, and concessions are set. We say, “Clear, clear, clear, clear,” before doors open. Then the audience arrives — and gratitude is at the core of it all. It’s joy. You’re known for going the extra mile. I love helping people — whether that’s simply making sure someone feels cared for or standing in the rain with a blind couple to help them get a cab. Once, a donor saw that and increased her contribution. I don’t do it for recognition. I do it because that’s how I was raised. What’s most challenging? Managing people and energy. When it’s showtime, something comes over me — I can see the whole picture. I’m often the first call for de-escalation, a skill I gained working in public schools. I believe in face-to-face connection, reading the room, and making people feel seen. That’s both the hardest and best part. Do you enjoy working in the arts? Music saved my life. I was essentially an only child, and music became my constant companion. When my dad finally bought me a stereo, everything changed. Music has always been how I process life. What might surprise people about your job? I’ve had 100 percent attendance since taking this position — I’ve never missed a show. Do you have a favorite thing about Lyric? I’m deeply grateful to lead in such a prestigious house. I remind staff: You’re working on one of the largest opera stages in the world. This is like Microsoft or Google for tech people. It’s both a responsibility and a privilege. And if someone says they have “nosebleed seats,” I tell them, No — you’re in the penthouse . People of Lyric A behind-the-scenes conversation Hometown Chicago — the Chatham neighborhood (I used to call it Mayberry). When did you start at Lyric? Spring 2018 First live performance? My mother took me to Les Misérables . It wasn’t opera, but it introduced me to musical storytelling. Later, I came to Lyric at least once a year and saw classics like La Bohème and Madama Butterfly . Favorite performer? J’nai Bridges Favorite opera character? Carmen — fiery, colorful, and full of passion. Lena Reynolds Sneed Front of House Manager Kyle Flubacker