Ravinia 2026 Issue 2

WELCOME FROM THE PRESIDENT AND THE CHAIRMAN A s we begin a new chapter in our history this summer, we are thrilled you are here. Welcome! Since 1904, generations have gathered in this park to stop, listen, and connect. Experiencing live music under the stars is always magical, but this year, it is even more special. Our staff has worked tirelessly through the off-season to perfect the park: keeping the Lawn ready for your blankets; building new tables for the picnic grove; repaving walkways, and so much more. At the center of it all is our fully renovated Hunter Pavilion, lovingly updated in a manner that keeps it connected to our roots while bring- ing it into the 21st century. Inside are all-new seats, improved sight- lines, cup holders, a stunning acous- tic shell to highlight the Chicago Symphony Orchestra in its summer home, and important technological and behind-the-scenes upgrades. From the outside, it shines even brighter than before. The space exists because of a family’s love. The Hunter children and grandchildren wanted to honor their parents and grandparents, longtime Ravinia-goers Maxine and Thomas B. Hunter III. And now, this cherished gathering place will welcome genera- tions of families, guests, and artists, a gift born out of the family’s enduring commit- ment to this community. Backstage in The Negaunee Foundation Artist Center—completed last year in Phase I of our renovation—and while performing on The Negaunee Stage, our musicians will experience better-than-ever facilities befitting our world- class concert venue. With this work completed, the future of this beloved space is secured. We are grateful to these foundations for their incredible generosity and enduring belief in Ravinia’s mission. Every year we are pleased to thank the individuals, corporations, and foundations whose support makes all that we do possible. From our artistic development and edu- cation programs on-site and in Chicago and Lake County public schools through the Steans Institute and Reach Teach Play, to the world-leading music we present, to the restaurants, guest experiences, and beautiful park we maintain, the resources provided by our supporters—and our ticket buyers—are paramount. It is together, as a community, that we celebrate and enjoy the shared music moments that un- derscore and lift up our lives. We hope you create new mo- ments and new memories with us, and with those you love, here at Ravinia this summer. DANIELAO’LEARY-GILL Chairman JEFFREYP.HAYDON President and CEO 418 Sheridan Road Highland Park, IL 60035 847-266-5000 ravinia.org Jeffrey P. Haydon President and Chief Executive Officer Elizabeth Fildes Chief Marketing &Communications Officer Kate Hogan Berger Director of Communications &Content Nick Panfil Associate Creative Director, Writing & Publications PMGMA, Inc. 3394 Commercial Avenue, Northbrook, IL 60062 847-770-4620 pmgma.com Gail McGrath Publisher and President Sheldon Levin Publisher and Director of Finance Rand Brichta Sales Manager Candice Kuhnen ∙ Jill Wettersten Account Managers Steve Dunn Web Designer For advertising information, call 847-770-4621 or email gmcgrath@pmgma.com PMGMA, Inc. isaWomanOwnedBusiness PublishedbyPMGMA, Inc. Allcontentsarecopyrighted2026.All rights reserved. Nothingmaybe reproduced inanymanner,wholeorpart, withoutwrittenpermission from thepublisher. Foradvertising termsandconditions ,visitpmgma.com MISSIONSTATEMENTOF THE RAVINIA FESTIVAL ASSOCIATION Our mission is to enrich lives through the transformative power of music. Ravinia honors our vibrant history of classical music while celebrating a multitude of musical genres. Through exceptional performances, educational programs, professional training, and community engagement, we strive to create memorable experiences that connect people, foster curiosity, and ensure that the joy of live music is accessible to all. RAVINIAMAGAZINE • JULY 20 – AUGUST 2 , 2026 4