Lyric Young Professionals

A project of the Renée Fleming Initiative, Lyric Young Professionals (LYP) has quickly grown in size and impact, into a group of over 150 dynamic opera lovers dedicated to building the next generation of supporters for Lyric Opera of Chicago. LYP Members come from an array of backgrounds, with a shared passion for connection and amplification of the operatic artform. Our young professionals demonstrate their support by curating events which foster community, and fundraise for Lyric’s very own young artists in the The Patrick G. and Shirley W. Ryan Opera Center. The Lyric Young Professionals are governed by the Lyric Young Professionals Board, who liaise closely with Lyric staff, to encourage growth and direction for the entire LYP community.

Why join LYP?
Become a member
Membership FAQ
Events and programming
Medley Subscription Series

Why join LYP?

Network & Play

You don't need to be an opera expert or seasoned opera-goer to join! Lyric Young Professionals are between ages 21 and 45 and are looking to network with like-minded professionals who are passionate about theatre and supporting the arts in Chicago. LYP members enjoy a range of exciting experiences including access to our unique social and networking events, educational programming, volunteer opportunities, and access to our Medley subscription offering steeply discounted tickets to Lyric performances.

Giving Back

All LYP contributions directly support The Patrick G. and Shirley W. Ryan Opera Center. As the next generation of Lyric supporters, LYP is passionate about creating a sustainable future for opera. The Patrick G. and Shirley W. Ryan Opera Center prepares emerging singers and apprentice coaches for careers in opera by providing unique, comprehensive training. Support of the Ryan Opera Center is a key part of the mission and growth of LYP as we not only support these talented artists for their skill, but as vibrant young professionals themselves.

Become a member

Becoming a member requires two easy steps:

First, go to the Join LYP page to pay your $100 membership dues right through our website. This is a non-tax deductible annual fee that members pay to help cover operations such as event administrative costs and food and beverage at our many events offered throughout the year.
Second, make a contribution of any amount to The Patrick G. and Shirley W. Ryan Opera Center, Lyric’s artist development program. Your contribution is 100% tax deductible.

Once you have completed both steps, you will be an active member of LYP until June 30 of the following year. Note: there is no deadline to join LYP. You can join LYP at any point throughout the calendar year. We will notify you when your membership expiration is nearing at the end of Lyric’s Fiscal Year on June 30.

Join LYP

Membership FAQ

Don't see your question below? Reach out to our Boards Team at 312.827.5676 or [email protected]!

Fees at the LYP Member level and above are split between dues and contribution. Dues cover operations such as administrative costs and food and beverage at our many events offered throughout the year and are not tax deductible. The contribution portion of membership directly supports The Patrick G. and Shirley W. Ryan Opera Center artist development program at Lyric.
As the next generation of Lyric supporters LYP is passionate about creating a sustainable environment for the future of opera. The Patrick G. and Shirley W. Ryan Opera Center prepares emerging singers and apprentice coaches for careers in opera by providing unique, comprehensive training. Support of the Ryan Opera Center is a key part of the mission and growth of LYP as we not only support these talented artists for their skill but also as vibrant young professionals themselves.

Events and programming

Our Mix & Medleys are special, pre-performance receptions which take place before select operas included in the LYP Medley Subscription. Medley ticket holders for said performances are invited to join fellow members on the Mezzanine of the Opera House to enjoy light bites and drinks, and mingle with like-minded young professionals, as well as featured Chorus members from the night’s production!
- Moonlight Social
  
  A new event, initiated in the 2024/25 Season, the Moonlight Social is LYP’s signature, annual fundraising event! Centered around one production throughout the Season, LYP hosts a post-performance reception backstage, offering a unique opportunity for attendees to celebrate with other young professionals as well as members of Lyric’s staff and artistic team! In addition to being a night of fun, all proceeds for the event benefit The Patrick G and Shirley Ryan Opera Center.
- Lyric Opening Gala
  
  LYP Members are extended special, discounted tickets for Lyric’s annual Season Opening Gala!
- Civic Night
  
  LYP Members are extended special, discounted tickets for Lyric’s annual Civic Night. Hosted by the Women's Board of Lyric Opera of Chicago, Civic Night at Lyric is an exclusive evening to celebrate the art of opera alongside our esteemed corporate and community partners.

Medley Subscription Series

Lyric Young Professionals are eligible to purchase $40 Medley Series tickets through our Medley Subscription Series! The $40 tickets include any additional fees included in your initial purchase. Members can book a maximum of four tickets per Medley performance, for a package of three or more operas from the Medley Series dates.

To become eligible, LYP members pay $100 dues plus a contribution to the Ryan Opera Center of whichever amount is comfortable for you.

Explore the Medley Series