Community programs

Lyric partners with community organizations throughout the Chicago region to use the arts as a lens for sharing experiences, for expressing creativity, and for reflection.

Through collaborative programming, the teams at Lyric seek to understand and respond to the needs and interests of communities around the city. The resulting programs, events and activities expand the boundaries of storytelling, ask important questions, and seek to redefine the audiences for opera. 

Dr. Lady J at Lyric

Artist-in-Residence

Opera Insights

Music that heals 

Upcoming family programs

Dr. Lady J at Lyric

Everyone at Lyric Opera of Chicago is excited to partner with Dr. Lady J, a celebrated drag queen musicologist and historian, for engaging events that explore the connections between drag and opera. Known for her dynamic research and performances, Dr. Lady J highlights marginalized voices and celebrates LGBTQIA+ contributions to the arts. Join us for unique opportunities to experience her captivating blend of drag and music scholarship.

Learn more

Artist-in-Residence

Lyric Unlimited's Artist-in-Residence program enriches Chicago's cultural scene with diverse performances and engaging community events. While contracted for the full season, these artists act as ambassadors, strengthening connections between Lyric and Chicago residents through civic activities, programs, concerts, and community partnerships. 

Learn more about this season's Artist-in-Residence

Opera Insights

Explore Opera Insights, a series of engaging discussions with Lyric Opera of Chicago that examine opera's connections to contemporary issues and timeless themes. Led by experts, these events offer fresh perspectives and deepen your understanding of the art form.

Explore Opera Insights

Music that Heals

Music that Heals programming engages the power of music to support mental, physical, and emotional well-being. In collaboration with local practitioners, Music that Heals offers immersive experiences to promote healing and balance, inviting audiences to explore music's profound impact on health.

Explore Music that Heals

Upcoming family programs

Upcoming family programs

Explore Your Lyric

April 26, 2025 at 11 AM

Lyric Unlimited — Learning & Civic Engagement Sponsors

3 Anonymous Donors

Bank of America

The Beaubien Family

BMO Harris Bank

Dr. & Mrs. Mark Bowen

The Buehler Family Foundation

Charles and M.R. Shapiro Foundation

CIBC Bank USA
CNA
ComEd an Exelon Company

Decyk Watts Charitable Foundation

Eisen Family Foundation

Helen Brach Foundation

Nancy W. Knowles Student and Family Performance Fund

Lloyd A. Fry Foundation

Mazza Foundation

Robert & Evelyn McCullen

Terry J. Medhurst

The Family of Seymour H. Persky

Polks Bros. Foundation

John Hart & Carol Prins

Robert and Penelope Steiner Family Foundation

Dr. Scholl Foundation

Segal Family Foundation

Shure Charitable Trust

The Siragusa Family Foundation

Mark Tatro & Margarita Chavez-Tatro

U.S. Bank

Roberta L. Washlow & Robert J. Washlow

Photos: Joe Mazza, Kyle Flubacker, Todd Rosenberg, Jaclyn Simpson