In the House

Introducing Karen Slack, Lyric Unlimited's new Artist-in-Residence

This season, soprano Karen Slack will act as an ambassador for the company's Learning and Civic Engagement division, fostering deeper connections between Lyric and the residents of Chicago. A series of performances and events will showcase her talent, and inspire and connect with audiences across a broad spectrum of the city.

What was your first exposure to opera, and what made you want to become a singer?

I attended the Philadelphia High School for the Creative and Performing Arts as a vocal major, and my choral teacher David King loved opera. He would play albums of all the greats (Corelli, Norman, Callas, Bjorling, Flagstad) every morning at 7 a.m. I fell in love with those glorious sounds at 14 years old. The first opera I attended was the final dress rehearsal of Carmen starring Denyce Graves at the then Opera Company of Philadelphia when I was in the 10th grade. I believe I was 15 or 16 years old. That performance changed my life. I knew then that I wanted to become a professional opera singer.

How do you describe opera to children and young adults who might not have had any exposure to classical music in schools?

I do quite a bit of outreach in my personal life. I regularly visit the classrooms of my friends who became public school teachers. I first start by singing for them so that I get their attention! Then I speak about how opera and classical music changed my life. I share my story and some of my favorite operas and why I chose this tremendous art form as a career. I never shy away from speaking about how big, bold, and grand our art form is. It's magical!

What role do you believe opera can play in addressing social issues or fostering community dialogue?

I believe if we want to keep growing audiences we can't stay focused on just maintaining the image that opera is only for certain people. Or that it is so precious and should only exist in an ivory tower. We have to stay current and competitive in building new audiences — so that means we must take off our blinders, share experiences, and tell more dynamic stories. Communication is what we do. Storytelling and passion is our business but that doesn't mean we can't lean into topics that matter to today's audiences. Making art in the 21st century requires tackling certain social issues of today. Maybe it's political to some but to me it is necessary. Mozart and Verdi were political and who can argue the greatness and sustainability of their works? Building new audiences requires us to lean into creating new visions for the stage and that they reflect the community it is supposed to serve.

What kind of impact do you hope to make in your position as Lyric Unlimited Artist-in-Residence?

To share my passion for our art form with the Chicago community and my commitment to the mission of Lyric Unlimited to provide quality art to the community.

What Lyric Unlimited activities during the season are you
most looking forward to?

Sharing my curated recitals that tie into the season is what I am excited about. Of Thee I Sing: Songs of Love and Justice during the opening week of Blue will be moving. I debuted this program in 2020 shortly after the murder of George Floyd, and it has evolved into a powerful 50-minute recital that leaves audiences realizing that without love and humanity there can never be justice. Dream Variations, another recital for 2025 that celebrates the great American soprano Jessye Norman during her 80th birthday year, is a highlight. Also, I look forward to creating new projects that spotlight Chicago singers performing this season who have gone on to sing on many stages around the world and how Lyric and the Chicago music community helped shape their path.

Let's talk about your performing career. You made your scorching Lyric debut as Serena in Porgy & Bess in the 2014/15 Season. What are your memories of your time in that production?

I remember the amazing reception we received after each performance. The Chicago audience was very gracious and I always hoped to return to this theater in other repertory. Also, of course, the weather. Being here for several months, from September to December, was a complete shock to my system. Opening night was -2 degrees — unbelievable!

You recently performed the song "Lyric for True Love" by Undine Smith Moore at the Sunday in the Park with Lyric concert at Millennium Park. How did you select that piece — what is its significance to you?

I was asked to suggest a song to perform with piano and immediately thought of that composer. We rarely get to hear her incredible art songs. She, like Florence Price, writes virtuoso works for piano and equally impressively for the voice. It is a short but mighty piece so to me it was an easy choice.

What advice would you give to young artists who are aspiring to have a career in opera?

Never forget why you decided to pursue a career in opera. Keep yourself inspired, continue to be curious, and always hold on to your love of singing. It is YOUR gift!