December 01, 2023
A holiday gift guide for opera lovers
The holiday season has arrived, and we're here to help with a few gift ideas for the opera lover in your life. From books and art prints, to neckties and puzzles, there's something for everyone. No time to spare? Opera tickets and Lyric gift certificates are one-size-fits-all and with sweet treats like Puccini's La Bohème and the classic film, Singin' in the Rain with live orchestra coming in 2025, you'll be sure to start the new year on a high note.
For the bookworm:
From canonical pieces like Gershwin's Porgy and Bess to modern adaptations like Carmen Jones, Dr. Naomi André delves into how blackness is represented in opera through performance, audience engagement, and what people find meaningful in the art form today.
For the movie buff:
When discussing the best film adaptations of operas, it's hard to think of anything that could top Ingmar Bergman's 1975 made-for-tv-movie of Mozart's The Magic Flute. The DVD or BluRay is perfect for anyone who wants some Tinseltown with their tinsel.
For the opera fanatic:
Whether they're a longtime opera fan or new to the art form, tickets to a Lyric performance are the perfect way to fill their holidays with music and cheer. Choose from an audience favorite like Puccini's La Bohème, an adventurous new work like Mazzoli/Vavrek's The Listeners or A Wondrous Sound for choral hits that any classical music fan will love.
For the puzzle master:
With a collage of vintage theater and opera posters for Verdi's Aida, Puccini's Tosca, Massenet's Cendrillon, and more, this 1,000-piece jigsaw puzzle is just the ticket.
For the singer:
Whether they're singing on major stages around the world or at the local karaoke bar, this sassy mask is sure to be their style.
For the cook:
If your butter half knows their Tournedos Rossini from their Peach Melba, this operatic apron is sure to make an egg-cellent gift.
For your opera buddy:
One for you and one for your go-to opera buddy! Personalize the keychains with your favorite aria, or the Lyric production you loved most.
For the novelty tie enthusiast:
Whether dressing up for date night at Lyric or adding some personality to their professional attire, this necktie will knot disappoint the music fan in your life.
For the art lover:
What better way to show off your love of Lyric than with a hand drawn print of the historic Civic Opera House, home to Lyric and Chicago's opera lovers since 1954.
For the pickiest person on your list:
Can't choose? You can never go wrong with a Lyric gift certificate. After all, the best gift is spending time with those you love. Because gift certificates never expire, you can let them choose the production and date that works best for their busy schedule.
