A New Chapter for Lyric: "Singin' in the Rain" with Live Orchestra

On February 7, 2025, Lyric Opera of Chicago will present a unique blend of classic film and live music. For the first time, the Lyric Opera Orchestra will perform a live film score alongside a screening of Singin' in the Rain, bringing this beloved 1952 musical to life in a way Lyric audiences have never before experienced.

How does a project like this come together? Behind the scenes, it’s a fascinating mix of precision and preparation. We spoke with some of the Lyric experts making this event a reality, and their insights reveal the artistry and technical mastery involved.

Preparing for a live film concert requires an entirely different rehearsal process. 

"There are two full readings of the score," says Stephanie Karr, Lyric's Senior Director of Music Administration. "Like any other musical work, the orchestra has the sheet music, but they'll also have in-ear monitors to stay perfectly aligned with the film's audio." This careful synchronization ensures that every musician is in harmony with the film’s visuals.

"We treat each rehearsal as a technical run-through, making sure all elements — video, amplification, and monitoring — are in place from the start," adds Michael Smallwood, Lyric's Vice President of Production and Technical Director. "Musicians use audio monitors to stay in sync with the conductor and the click track, while the conductor follows the film on a video monitor. This ensures every technical detail comes together for a seamless live film concert."

Synchronization is key in a live film concert, and each musician will wear in-ear monitors to hear a click track and an adjustable mix of the orchestra. For those who prefer an alternative, wedge speakers are placed throughout the orchestra, serving the same purpose.

"The orchestra will be lightly amplified to blend with the film’s dialogue," says Smallwood. "A front-of-house audio mixer manages this amplification in real time, ensuring a seamless balance between the orchestra and dialogue, particularly during underscoring."

To enhance the visual experience, two additional IMAG (Image Magnification) screens will be hung to provide a closer view of the movie while still allowing the audience to witness the orchestra perform onstage, ensuring that every seat in the house will provide a complete experience.

In addition to a full 75-piece orchestra, this production requires unique instrumentation be added, like slide guitar, jazz bass, and saxophones.

Don’t miss your chance to experience Singin' in the Rain like never before. As the story of Hollywood’s transition to "talkies" unfolds on the big screen, the Lyric Opera Orchestra will provide a lush, live soundtrack that celebrates the golden age of musicals.