Chapter Member Spotlight

Meet Bonnie Zeitlin: longtime Chapter member and Lyric subscriber.  Bonnie has been an involved member for over 50 years—first in Skokie Valley Chapter, then in Northwest Chapter and now in Northfield Chapter. Bonnie saw her first opera while in college, awakening a lifelong passion that has become an integral part of her life. Bonnie has volunteered at Lyric in numerous capacities. She helped with Study Guides, wrote the synopsis for Susannah (image above) and worked at over 30 Operathons.  In addition, she led student backstage tours for 15 years, has helped with Opera Shop and as a greeter for the musicals. Bonnie is currently on the Program Committee of the Northfield Chapter.

Many years ago, Bonnie started what ended up being a 30-year correspondence with the world renowned soprano, Dame Joan Sutherland. Bonnie sent her a birthday card celebrating their shared birthday. Dame Joan responded. Bonnie followed each year by sending a card wherever the soprano was singing.  When Dame Joan retired, she sent Bonnie her home address to continue their ongoing correspondence. Dame Joan would follow up with a note and even a handwritten letter. When she passed away, Bonnie sent a card to Dame Joan's husband, Maestro Richard Bonynge.  He sent Bonnie a note thanking her for her condolences and that he was aware of Bonnie and Dame Joan's longtime correspondence.

Thank you, Bonnie, for all you have done and continue to do for Lyric and the Chapters.