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A NOTE FROM DEBORAH SANDLER KEMPER
The story of Romeo and Juliet is perfect for an opera, and given the large number of adaptations, one could say it is a universal love story. It has been interpreted and reinterpreted in film, television, stage productions, literature, and music. During my time at Lyric Opera, which began in 2012, we have presented three very different takes on the story. In 2013, we created a new The Capulets and the Montagues production for Joyce DiDonato. It was written by Vincenzo Bellini in 1830 and was based on an Italian source, not directly from Shakespeare. The families are political rivals. In 2018, we produced Bernstein’s West Side Story, which premiered in 1957, transporting the story to Manhattan’s Upper West Side in the mid-1950s. In 2024, we bring you Gounod’s Roméo et Juliette, which premiered in Paris in 1867. Shakespeare’s inspirational use of language, fitting for a play, transforms into opera’s medium, centering the work on four incredible duets. You are in for a real treat with a remarkable cast. You will hear about our next season at our performance today. It is an exciting season filled with superstars and great operas. We encourage you to subscribe or renew your subscription as early as possible. Supporting the company as a subscriber guarantees the company revenue, allowing us to operate more efficiently so that your dollars are spent to bring you the best on stage. There will also be many ancillary events to enhance your experiences further. Thank you for being such a great audience. Enjoy!
Deborah Sandler Kemper, General Director and CEO
BOARD OF TRUSTEES: 2023–2024 OFFICERS Anthony Durone, President Richard English, Vice President Scott Blakesley, Secretary Mark Benedict, Treasurer BOARD OF TRUSTEES Dr. Ivan Batlle Richard P. Bruening Tom Butch Casey Claps Dr. Melinda Estes Michael D. Fields Christina Hager Kenneth V. Hager
Mary Leonida Mira Mdivani Edward P. Milbank Thomas E. Nanney Andrew Robb Jug Stanovcic Steve Taylor
EX-OFFICIO MEMBERS Carmen Sabates | President, Lyric Opera Circle Sharon Barry | 2024 Ball Co-Chair, Lyric Opera Circle Deanna Diebolt | 2024 Ball Co-Chair, Lyric Opera Circle Drewbie Price | Chair, Orpheus KC LEGAL COUNSEL, EX-OFFICIO MEMBER Wade Kerrigan, Husch Blackwell, LLP, General Counsel
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The first issue of The Independent was published on March 11, 1899. The magazine was the brainchild of Arthur Grissom and George Creel. Young Mr. Grissom soon returned to New York, where he was a founder of The Smart Set prior to his death at the age of 31. George Creel continued to run The Independent until 1909. (In later years, Mr. Creel would serve as chairman of the Committee for Public Information under President Woodrow Wilson. He devised much of the propaganda that encouraged Americans to support World War I.) The next owners of the magazine were Clara Kellogg and Katherine Baxter of the Kellogg-Baxter Printing Company, who lived and worked together. After Miss Baxter’s death from pneumonia at the age of 43 in 1924, Miss Kellogg published an annual tribute to her. Martha Nichols Gaylord (Mrs. Gleed Gaylord) became the editor and owner in 1939, a decade after she joined the staff. Mrs. Gaylord headed the magazine during a time when the arts were proliferating in Our Town: The Kansas City Ballet was founded in 1957, the Lyric Opera of Kansas City in 1958 and the Kansas City Repertory Theatre in 1964. Mrs. Gaylord sold The Independent to Robert P. Ingram in 1983. Laureen Ingram, Mr. Ingram’s daughter-in-law, purchased the magazine from him in 1996. Rachel Lewis Falcon became the new owner and publisher in 2017. The Independent Magazine Publisher ............................................................ Rachel Lewis Falcon Director of Program Guide Operations ............. Christin Painter Graphic Design .................................................. BurningStar Studios, LLC The Independent Magazine 2400 West 75th Street, Suite 120 • Prairie Village, KS 66208 • 816.471.2800 Christin Painter • Christin@kcindependent.com
kcindependent.com Lyric Opera of Kansas City program guides are a publication of the Performing Arts Division of The Independent magazine. Information in this publication was carefully compiled to ensure accuracy. However, the publisher does not assume responsibility for accuracy. Editorial program content was provided by the Kansas City Repertory Theatre. Copyright by The Independent magazine. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without written permission of the publisher.
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OPPORTUNITIES FOR STUDENTS, TEACHERS, AND THE COMMUNITY STUDENT DRESS REHEARSAL Groups of students and their teachers are invited to attend final dress rehearsals at the Kauffman Center where they will experience the sweeping music and thrilling drama of the opera. Teachers receive access to curricular resources to amplify learning already occurring in the classroom. OPERA UNLOCKED Opera Unlocked is our new comprehensive in-school educational initiative focusing on students in grades K-12. Prioritizing socialemotional learning and curricular alignment, a wide variety of gradespecific interactive programs are available to area schools. COMMUNITY CONVERSATIONS Community Conversations uses opera to discover our shared humanity, on and off the stage. We invite the culturally curious to explore the “here and now” implications of our productions in a series of events featuring live music and stimulating conversation. No prior opera knowledge needed! OPERA DIVES DEEP This free series provides fresh insights from regional scholars and industry professionals to enrich appreciation and understanding of the operas in our season. Both established operagoers and curious newcomers alike are sure to make interesting discoveries. PRE-OPERA TALKS Do you have tickets to see an opera at the Kauffman Center? Come one hour early to learn about the who, what, where, when, and why of the production you’re about to see.
Visit kcopera.org/learning to view our entire menu of programs, learn more, and register.
RESIDENT ARTIST PROGRAM
Continued on page 21.
Resident Artists are chosen by national audition. The program bridges graduate training to professional careers by providing performance opportunities, coaching, and career training.
KELLI VAN METER (Soprano)
Soprano Kelli Van Meter’s (they/she) recent engagements include the Charlotte Street Foundation’s New Music Compositions concert which showcased original scores exploring queer themes, soloist in Handel’s Messiah with the Kansas City Symphony, and featured soloist with the University of Missouri-Kansas City Conservatory Orchestra and Hastings Symphony Orchestra. Notable roles include the title role in Suor Angelica, Judith (Bluebeard’s Castle), Alice Ford (Falstaff), Rosalinde (Die Fledermaus ), Arminda (La finta giardiniera ), Gretel (Hansel and Gretel ), Elle (La voix humaine ), and Violetta (La traviata ). Awards include first place in the UMKC Chancellor’s Competition and Naftzger Young Artist Competition. Van Meter received their degrees in voice performance from the University of Missouri-Kansas City and University of Kansas under the mentorship of Maria Kanyova.
CHRISTINE BODDICKER (Mezzo-Soprano)
Mezzo-soprano Christine Boddicker made her professional debut in 2022 with Indianapolis Opera as a fall Resident Artist. Boddicker has been a Young Artist with Janiec Opera Company of the Brevard Music Center, Opera Steamboat, Miami Music Festival, and Chicago Summer Opera. Notable roles include Sesto (La clemenza di Tito ), Angelina (Cinderella ), Sesto (Giulio Cesare ), and Mercédès (Carmen ). Boddicker’s competition accolades include finalist in the 2022 San Antonio Tuesday Musical Club Young Artist Competition, semi-finalist in the 2022 and 2023 Saengerbund Awards, and the first-place award in the 2021 MIOpera Vocal Competition. She received her master’s degree in performance from the University of Houston and her bachelor’s degree in performance from Michigan State University.
BENJAMIN RUIZ (Tenor)
Tenor Benjamin Ruiz made his European debut with Mittelsächsisches Theater as Polizist (Brundibár) and Profesor Würchem (Der Vogelhändler). Notable roles include L’Italien (Angélique ), John Styx (Orpheus in the Underworld ), Aeneas (Dido and Aeneas ), Witch (Hansel and Gretel ), Peter Quint (Turn of the Screw ), and Young LBJ in the world premiere of Lady Bird: First Lady of the Land . Ruiz was named a first prize winner of the Inaugural Duncan Williams International Voice Competition, an Encouragement Award Winner of the 2023 Metropolitan Opera Laffont Competition, and an award winner of the 2023 Alan M. and Joan Taub Ades Vocal Competition. Ruiz was recipient of the Edgar Foster Daniels Foundation Scholarship in Voice at Manhattan School of Music from 2021–2023. Ruiz holds a master’s degree in voice performance from the Manhattan School of Music.
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RESIDENT ARTIST PROGRAM CONT. JOSE OLIVARES (Bass-Baritone)
Bass-baritone Jose Olivares’ recent roles include Simone (Gianni Schicchi), Horace Vandergelder (Hello, Dolly!), Pandolfe (Cinderella), and Holborn Gaines (The Manchurian Candidate) with Seagle Festival, and Dulcamara (The Elixir of Love) and Colline (La bohème) with Opera Magnifico. Other roles include Dr. Gregg (Gallantry), Kapo (The Path to Heaven), Germano (La scala di seta), Olin Blitch (Susannah), soloist in Handel’s Messiah, Dubois’ Seven Last Words, and Hayes’ Requiem. Olivares holds a master’s degree from the University of Oklahoma.
JIMIN SEO (Coach-Accompanist)
Performer, conductor, vocal coach, and collaborative pianist Jimin Seo joined Indianapolis Opera as a resident artist in 2018. In 2015, she was a finalist in the American Choral Directors Association Student Conducting Competition. Seo earned her Bachelor of Music in conducting with minors in organ and voice from Yonsei University. She holds a Master of Music in choral conducting, collaborative piano, and orchestral conducting from the University of Cincinnati CollegeConservatory of Music and is currently pursuing her Doctor of Musical Arts in orchestral conducting and collaborative piano at the University of North Texas.
Carmen photo by Don Ipock for Lyric Opera of Kansas City
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MILOŠ, GUITAR
An opera in five acts by Charles Gounod
PRINCIPAL CAST Roméo (Tenor) Juliette (Soprano) Mercutio (Baritone) Frère Laurent (Bass) Count Capulet (Bass) Tybalt (Tenor) Duke of Verona (Bass) Stéphano (Mezzo-Soprano) Gertrude (Mezzo-Soprano) Grègorio (Baritone) Benvolio (Tenor) Count Pâris (Baritone) ~ UMKC Apprentice ^ Lyric Opera Resident Artist
Ben Bliss Andriana Chuchman* Johnathan McCullough* Nicholas Newton* Ben Wager Benjamin Ruiz^ José Olivares*^ Christine Boddicker^ Deanna Ray Eberhart+ Riley Findley# Angelo Silva~ Jonathan Bryan
#William Jewell Apprentice + KU Apprentice
* Lyric Debut @Past Resident Artist/Apprentice
Roméo et Juliette was first performed at Théâtre Lyrique, 1867 Presented in French with English titles Running Time: Three hours with one intermission SEASON SPONSORS: With public support from the Missouri Arts Council, a state agency. This performance is made possible in part by a grant from the Martha Lee Cain Tranby Music Enrichment Fund.
Scenery and costumes for this production were constructed at the Minnesota Opera Shops and Cincinnati Opera and are jointly owned by Minnesota Opera and Cincinnati Opera. English titles written by Jeremy Sortore Stage crew provided by IATSE Local 31 Wardrobe crew provided by The Theatrical Wardrobe Union Local 810
CREATIVE TEAM CONDUCTOR
Christopher Allen
ORIGINAL PRODUCTION & STAGING DIRECTOR & FIGHT CHOREOGRAPHER ASSISTANT DIRECTOR SET DESIGNER
Matthew Ozawa Doug Scholz-Carlson Joshua Horowitz William Boles*
COSTUME DESIGNER
Sarah Bahr*
LIGHTING DESIGNER
Paul Whitaker*
WIG AND MAKE-UP DESIGNER DANCE CHOREOGRAPHER INTIMACY DIRECTOR CHORUS MASTER FRENCH DICTION COACH REHEARSAL ACCOMPANISTS MUSIC LIBRARIAN PROPS SUPERVISOR LIGHTING SUPERVISOR COSTUME COORDINATOR WIG AND MAKE-UP ASSISTANTS WIG AND MAKE-UP CREW
David Zimmerman Caroline Dahm Jenise Cook* Piotr Wiśniewski Aaron Barksdale-Burns Piotr Wiśniewski, Jimin Seo Elena Lence-Talley Gavin Merrill* Selena Gonzalez-Lopez Nancy Robinson Blaine Shepherd, Katie Wasicko Mary Caitland Williams
TITLES OPERATOR
Sarah Zsohar
STAGE MANAGER
Alayna Powell
ASSISTANT STAGE MANAGERS
Caroline Jackson, Jess Tibboles
HEAD CARPENTER
Kyle Deckman
HEAD PROPSMAN
Steve Cochran
HEAD ELECTRICIAN
Daniel McMahan
HEAD FLYMAN
Evan Suellentrop
HEAD SOUND ENGINEER
Grant Conrad
WARDROBE SUPERVISOR
Desiree Baird Story
WARDROBE ASSISTANT
Amanda McCarty
* Lyric Debut
CHORUS SOPRANO Lauren Auge@ Judy Bliss Virenia Lind* Kathryn Long Alexis Merry~ Grace Ann Mott* Kristin Newbegin
TENOR Hunter Eisenmenger Truman Grant Trent Green David Helder* Angelo Silva~ Kevin Thomas Smith Brian Sussman
MEZZO–SOPRANO Rebecca Allen Ashley Beth Burnett Jennifer Forman Lindsay James Sarah Lockwood Kelly Morel@ Emma WitbolsFeugen
BASS/BARITONE Powell Brumm Phil Eatherton Riley Findley# Terence Murphy@ Matthew Scrivner Nathan Whitson Ron Witzke
DANCERS Max Nelson-Steinhoff* Lieana Sherry*
Troy Gardner* Ashlan Zay*
SUPERNUMERARIES Carly McCracken* Charlotte Gilman Mark Spencer Christian Boudreaux
~ UMKC Apprentice ^ Lyric Opera Resident Artist
Brad Foster Ernesto Suárez James Symmonds Alisa Lynn
#William Jewell Apprentice + KU Apprentice
* Lyric Debut @Past Resident Artist/Apprentice
KANSAS CITY SYMPHONY MICHAEL STERN, Music Director FIRST VIOLINS Jun Iwasaki,
Concertmaster, Miller Nichols Chair Stirling Trent, Associate Concertmaster Sunho Kim, Assistant Concertmaster
Anne-Marie Brown Michael Brown Betty Chen Anthony DeMarco Susan Goldenberg* Tomoko Iguchi Dorris Dai Janssen Filip Lazovski # Chiafei Lin Vladimir Rykov Alex Shum*
SECOND VIOLINS
Tamamo Someya Gibbs, Principal
Kristin Velicer, Acting Associate Principal
Minhye Helena Choi,
Acting Assistant Principal
Arianna Brusubardis # Mary Garcia Grant Kazato Inouye Rena Ishii Paul Kim # Stephanie Larsen Jinyou Lee # Sodam Lim James Zabawa-Martinez ^
VIOLAS
MingYu Hsu, Principal Duncan Steele #, Associate Principal
Jessica Nance, Assistant Principal
Kent Brauninger Sean Brumble Marvin Gruenbaum Jenifer Houck Duke Lee Jesse Yukimura
CELLOS
Mark Gibbs, Principal, Robert A. Kipp Chair
Susie Yang, Associate
Principal, Richard Hill Chair
Alexander East, Assistant Principal
Matt Beckmann ^ Maria Crosby John Eadie
Lawrence Figg Meredith McCook Allen Probus
DOUBLE BASSES
Evan Halloin, Acting Principal
Richard Ryan, Acting Associate Principal
Nils Aardahl Lena Goodson ^ Joseph Nunez Keith Wymer ^ Caleb Quillen*
FLUTES
Michael Gordon, Principal, Marylou and John Dodds Turner Chair
Shannon Finney,
Associate Principal
Kayla Burggraf
PICCOLO
HORNS
David Sullivan, Acting Principal, Landon and Sarah Rowland Chair
Alberto Suarez *, Principal Elizabeth Gray Acting Associate Principal
David Gamble Stephen Multer, Associate Principal Emeritus
Benjamin Bacni ^
TRUMPETS
Julian Kaplan, Principal,
James B. and Annabel Nutter Chair
George Goad, Acting Associate Principal
Steven Franklin*, Associate Principal
Shea Kelsay ^
TROMBONES
Evelyn Carlson #, Principal Porter Wyatt Henderson, Associate Principal
Kayla Burggraf
Jahleel Smith ^
OBOES
BASS TROMBONE
Shirley Bush Helzberg Chair Alison Chung, Associate Principal
TUBA
Kristina Fulton, Principal,
Matthew Lengas
ENGLISH HORN Matthew Lengas
CLARINETS
Raymond Santos, Principal, Bill and Peggy Lyons Chair Trevor Stewart ^, Acting Associate Principal Silvio Guitian*, Associate Principal
John Klinghammer
E-FLAT CLARINET Trevor Stewart ^ Silvio Guitian*
Jahleel Smith ^
Joe LeFevre, Principal Frank Byrne Chair
TIMPANI
Timothy Jepson, Principal,
Michael and Susan Newburger Chair
PERCUSSION
David Yoon, Acting Principal Justin Ochoa ^,Acting Associate Principal
HARP
Katie Ventura ^, Acting Principal
LIBRARIANS
Elena Lence Talley, Principal Fabrice Curtis
BASS CLARINET
John Klinghammer
BASSOONS
Ann Bilderback, Principal,
Barton P. and Mary D. Cohen Chair Thomas DeWitt, Associate Principal
Maxwell Pipinich
CONTRABASSOON Thomas DeWitt
Justin White, Director of Orchestra Personnel
Kirsten Loynachan, Assistant Personnel Manager
Tyler Miller, Stage Manager * Non-Rotating Musician # New Member + One-Year Member ^ On Leave of Absence
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CONDUCTOR’S NOTES By Christopher Allen Shakespeare’s play Romeo and Juliet has been a source of artistic creation for hundreds of years, and many composers have been inspired to take a stab at telling the story of ill-fated young love. Notable settings include Prokofiev’s ballet, Berlioz’s choral symphony, a tone poem by Tchaikovsky, and Bernstein’s modern adaptation, West Side Story, told in the streets of New York City. In the operatic repertoire, Vincenzo Bellini’s The Capulets and the Montagues captured the essence of the bel canto period and was widely regarded as the greatest musical telling of Shakespeare’s tragedy after its premiere in 1830. Then, on April 27, 1867, Charles Gounod’s masterpiece Roméo et Juliette came to life at the Théâtre Lyrique in Paris. The premiere was wildly successful and universally celebrated by the French public, a perfect example of grand French opera during the middle part of the 19th century. The opera played for one hundred consecutive nights and was revived at the Opéra Comique in 1873. Juliette’s two arias are often considered among the most iconic and show-stopping moments in Gounod’s masterpiece, and the role has been played by some of the greatest operatic sopranos in history. I am drawn into the four duets between Roméo and Juliette, which consistently build in musical and dramaturgical complexity during the show. Gounod is a master of his craft, using the orchestra to paint the story harmonically. The Kansas City Symphony can really “sink its teeth into” this score, with a Prologue inspired by Bach and moments that reference Mozart’s Idomeneo and Requiem in the solemn choruses. From the great choral ensembles, party scenes, dramatic stage fights, charged duets, lush melodies, and harmonies, you will feel like you are in Paris during Napoleon III’s Second Empire in all its grandeur. Tenor Ben Bliss performs the role of Roméo: we started our careers together many years ago at the Los Angeles Opera, and this production marks our first time working together again. Our Juliette is soprano Andriana Chuchman, with whom I’ve performed and collaborated many times, including a production in which she played Giulietta in Bellini’s interpretation two seasons ago. Both singers are stars and will transport you musically and dramaturgically. The opera’s ending strays slightly from Shakespeare’s, allowing Roméo and Juliette to sing a final, devastatingly beautiful duet as fate turns on the unfortunate lovers.
DIRECTOR’S NOTES By Doug Scholz-Carlson Teenagers make bad choices. It was true in Verona in the 1400s; it is true today. Every one of us has a story to illustrate the point, so why does this particular story merit retelling? Why are Romeo and Juliet still inspiring productions from opera to theater to film? We’ve been telling this story for over four hundred years, and we don’t appear to have any desire to stop. In the 19th century, theater companies revised the story to give it a happy ending, but the custom never took hold. We don’t want a new story; we want our star-crossed lovers to break our hearts yet again. “Two households, both alike in dignity…” We are never told why the Montagues and the Capulets hate each other. One family isn’t good, and the other evil; all we know is that they have an ancient grudge. Ultimately, the story is about the consequences of division and hate. And the consequence of hate for these characters mostly ends badly, but it’s not because they are evil. In fact, it is their best qualities that lead them to tragedy. Love, loyalty to friends and family, a desire for justice, a sense of honor—these are all traits we aspire to, and yet, taken to excess and mixed up with a measure of hatred, they are the undoing of the youth of Verona. In Romeo and Juliet, we confront some of our worst fears. When the lights go down, we learn again that the world isn’t as simple as we’d like it to be. Mercutio is loyal. Tybalt believes in justice. Neither will survive the evening. And yet, there is something grand in this singleminded desire to live without compromise or die trying. Romeo and Juliet love. Period. To say, “I can’t live without you” is cliché. Romeo and Juliet mean it. Teenagers do make bad choices—bold, idealistic, passionate, bad choices. Romeo and Juliet remind us what it is to live truly and to love genuinely. No matter what age we are, we can all use that story. As Shakespeare puts it: “What love can do, that dares love attempt.” May it ever be so.
SYNOPSIS
Courtesy of The Metropolitan Opera
PROLOGUE Verona, 18th century. A chorus tells of the endless feud between the Montague and Capulet families, and of the love of their children, Roméo and Juliette.
ACT I At a masked ball in the courtyard of the Capulet palace, Juliette’s cousin Tybalt assures Count Pâris that Juliette, who has been promised to him, will enchant him. Capulet presents his daughter to the guests and invites them to dance. Mercutio and Roméo, a Montague, have donned masks to sneak into the ball, together with other friends. Roméo tells them about a strange dream he has had, but Mercutio dismisses it as the work of the fairy Queen Mab. Roméo watches Juliette dance and instantly falls in love with her. Juliette explains to her nurse, Gertrude, that she has no interest in marriage, but when Roméo approaches her in a quiet moment, both feel that they are meant for each other. Just as they discover each other’s identities, Tybalt happens upon them and recognizes Roméo. Capulet prevents him from attacking Roméo, who, with his friends, beats a hasty retreat.
ACT II Later that night, Roméo enters the Capulets’ garden, looking for Juliette. When she steps out onto her balcony, he declares his love. Servants briefly interrupt their encounter. When they are alone once again, Juliette assures Roméo that she will be his forever.
ACT III Roméo visits Frère Laurent in his cell and confesses his love for Juliette. Shortly thereafter, she also appears with Gertrude. Hoping that their love might reconcile their families, Frère Laurent marries them. Outside the Capulet palace, Roméo’s page, Stéphano, sings a song about a turtledove imprisoned in a nest of vultures. This angers several of the Capulets. Mercutio comes to Stéphano’s aid, but soon Tybalt challenges him to fight. Roméo steps between them and asks Tybalt to forget about the hatred between their families. Tybalt has nothing but scorn for him, and when he kills Mercutio in their duel, Roméo stabs Tybalt to death. The Duke of Verona appears and, after partisans of both families demand justice, exiles Roméo.
SYNOPSIS CONT.
Courtesy of The Metropolitan Opera
ACT IV Roméo and Juliette have spent their secret wedding night in her room. She forgives him for killing Tybalt. The newlyweds passionately declare their love as day is dawning. They can hardly bring themselves to say goodbye. After Roméo has left, Capulet appears, together with Frère Laurent, and announces to his daughter that she is to marry Pâris that same day. Desperate, Juliette turns to Frère Laurent, who gives her a potion that will make her appear to be dead. He promises that she will awaken with Roméo beside her. Love lends Juliette courage: she overcomes her fear and drinks the poison. On the way to the chapel where her wedding to Pâris is to take place, Juliette collapses. To the guests’ horror, Capulet announces that she is dead.
ACT V Roméo arrives at the Capulets’ crypt. Discovering Juliette’s body, he believes her to be dead and drinks poison. At that moment, she awakens, and the lovers share a final dream of a future together. As Roméo grows weaker, Juliette takes a dagger from his belt and stabs herself. The lovers die praying for God’s forgiveness.
ARTISTS BEN BLISS ROMÉO (Tenor)
Recent Don Ottavio, Don Giovanni, Opéra National de Paris Don Ottavio, Don Giovanni, Canadian Opera Company Tamino, The Magic Flute, Bayerische Staatsoper Upcoming Pelléas, Pelléas et Mélisande, Bayerische Staatsoper
ANDRIANA CHUCHMAN* JULIETTE (Soprano)
Recent Euridice, Orpheo ed Euridice, Salzburg Festival Whitsun Sandrine/Mercedes, The Diving Bell and the Butterfly, The Dallas Opera Violetta, La traviata, Opera Omaha Upcoming Donna Anna, Don Giovanni, Houston Grand Opera
JOHNATHAN MCCULLOUGH* MERCUTIO (Baritone)
Recent Figaro, The Barber of Seville, Pittsburgh Opera Figaro, The Barber of Seville, Pacific Opera Project Upcoming Baritone Soloist, Carmina Burana, Erie Philharmonic Ophémon, L’Amant anonyme, Opera Philadelphia
NICHOLAS NEWTON* FRÈRE LAURENT (Bass)
Recent Alidoro, Cinderella, Lyric Opera of Chicago Henry, Intelligence, Houston Grand Opera Upcoming Bass-Baritone, El Niño, The Metropolitan Opera Leporello, Don Giovanni, Santa Fe Opera
BEN WAGER COUNT CAPULET (Bass)
Recent Count Monterone, Rigoletto, Opera Philadelphia Don Giovanni, Don Giovanni, Ozarks Lyric Opera Don Pasquale, Don Pasquale, OperaDelaware
ARTISTS CONT. BENJAMIN RUIZ TYBALT (Tenor)
Recent Beppe, Pagliacci, Lyric Opera of Kansas City John Styx, Orpheus in the Underworld, Manhattan School of Music Opera Theatre L’italien, Angélique, Manhattan School of Music Opera Theatre Upcoming Playful String, The Haberdasher Prince, Lyric Opera of Kansas City Prune Man, La bohème, Opera Theatre of Saint Louis
JOSÉ OLIVARES* DUKE OF VERONA (Bass)
Recent Dad, Sketchbook for Ollie, Lyric Opera of Kansas City Blitch, Susannah, The University of Oklahoma Farfarello, The Love for Three Oranges, Des Moines Metro Opera Upcoming Stately String, The Haberdasher Prince, Lyric Opera of Kansas City Simone, Gianni Schicchi, Finger Lakes Opera
CHRISTINE BODDICKER STÉPHANO (Mezzo-Soprano)
Recent Aunt Leeza, Sketchbook for Ollie, Lyric Opera of Kansas City Sister Berthe, The Sound of Music, Lyric Opera of Kansas City Lola, Cavalleria rusticana, Lyric Opera of Kansas City Upcoming Clear String, The Haberdasher Prince, Lyric Opera of Kansas City Wellgunde, Journey to Valhalla, Lyric Opera of Kansas City Melissa (cover), Amadigi di Gaula, Ars Lyrica Houston
DEANNA RAY EBERHART GERTRUDE (Mezzo-Soprano)
Recent Chorus, Cavalleria rusticana | Pagliacci, Lyric Opera of Kansas City Aunt Leeza, Sketchbook for Ollie, Lyric Opera of Kansas City Upcoming Flosshilde, Journey to Valhalla, Lyric Opera of Kansas City
RILEY FINDLEY GRÈGORIO (Baritone)
Recent Gianni Schicchi, Gianni Schicchi, Opera Lucca Zuniga, Carmen, Lawrence Opera Theatre Melisso, Alcina, William Jewell College Upcoming Count Almaviva, The Marriage of Figaro, Berlin Opera Academy Don Giovanni, Don Giovanni, Lawrence Opera Theatre
ARTISTS CONT. ANGELO SILVA BENVOLIO (Tenor)
Recent Ollie, Sketchbook for Ollie, Lyric Opera of Kansas City Tamino, The Magic Flute, University of Missouri-Kansas City Rodrigo (Cover), Othello, Central City Opera Upcoming Rinuccio, Gianni Schicchi, Amarillo Opera Rinuccio, Gianni Schicchi, University of Missouri-Kansas City
JONATHAN BRYAN COUNT PÂRIS (Baritone)
Recent Ophémon, The Anonymous Lover, The Atlanta Opera Georg von Trapp, The Sound of Music, Arizona Opera Escamillo, Carmen, Washington National Opera Upcoming Egon Schiele, Egon Schiele, Jared Schwartz Workshop Safety Observer, Grounded (Workshop), The Metropolitan Opera
CREATIVE TEAM CHRISTOPHER ALLEN CONDUCTOR
Recent Conductor, Sounds of Norway, North Carolina Symphony Conductor, The Barber of Seville, Cincinnati Opera Conductor, Handel’s Messiah, Oregon Symphony Upcoming Conductor, Emily: A Musical Portrait, Wolf Trap Conductor, Handel’s Messiah, Tucson Symphony
DOUG SCHOLZ-CARLSON DIRECTOR AND FIGHT CHOREOGRAPHER
Recent Intimacy Director, Dead Man Walking, The Metropolitan Opera Director, The Winter’s Tale, Great River Shakespeare Festival Director, Sweeney Todd, Austin Opera Upcoming Director, Hamlet, Great River Shakespeare Festival Director, Sweeney Todd, Utah Opera
JOSHUA HOROWITZ ASSISTANT DIRECTOR
Recent Associate Director, La traviata, Seattle Opera Assistant Director, Roméo et Juliette, The Glimmerglass Festival Associate Director, Roméo et Juliette, Washington National Opera Upcoming Director, Journey to Valhalla, Lyric Opera of Kansas City Director, Rumpelstiltskin and the Unlovable Children, The Glimmerglass Festival
WILLIAM BOLES SET DESIGNER
Recent Set Designer, Roméo et Juliette, Minnesota Opera Set Designer, Second Nature, Lyric Opera of Chicago Set Designer, King Roger, Chicago Opera Theater Upcoming Set Designer, Morris Micklewhite and the Tangerine Dress, Children’s Theatre Company and Alliance Theatre
SARAH BAHR COSTUME DESIGNER
Recent Costume & Scenic Designer, I Am Betty, History Theatre Costume Designer, The Winter’s Tale, Great River Shakespeare Festival Costume Designer, Don Giovanni, Minnesota Opera Upcoming Costume Designer, Stones in His Pockets, Theater Latté Da Associate Costume Designer, Alice in Wonderland, The Children’s Theatre
CREATIVE TEAM CONT. PAUL WHITAKER LIGHTING DESIGNER
Recent Lighting Designer, The Life and Death(s) of Alan Turing, Chicago Opera Theater Lighting Designer, Roméo et Juliette, OPERA San Antonio Lighting Designer, SUMO, La Jolla Playhouse Upcoming Lighting Designer, Twelve Angry Men: A New Musical, Asolo Repertory Theatre Lighting Designer, Andy Warhol in Iran, City Theatre Company
DAVID ZIMMERMAN WIG AND MAKEUP DESIGNER
Recent Wig and Makeup Designer, The Sound of Music, Lyric Opera of Kansas City Wig and Makeup Designer, Cavalleria rusticana | Pagliacci, Lyric Opera of Kansas City Wig and Makeup Designer, Tosca, The Dallas Opera
CAROLINE DAHM DANCE CHOREOGRAPHER
Recent Dancer, Carmen, Lyric Opera of Kansas City Choreographer, New Moves 2023, Kansas City Ballet Choreographer, about-face, Newport Contemporary Ballet Upcoming Choreographer, New Moves 2024, Kansas City Ballet Choreographer, Premiere Work, SALT Contemporary Dance Choreographer, Premiere Work, Cincinnati Ballet
JENISE COOK INTIMACY DIRECTOR
Recent Intimacy Director, Legally Blonde, Starlight Theatre Intimacy Director, One-Shot, Cleveland Playhouse New Ground Festival Intimacy Director, Smart People, Kansas City Actors Theatre
PIOTR WIŚNIEWSKI CHORUS MASTER & ASSISTANT CONDUCTOR
Recent Chorus Master and Assistant Conductor, Sondheim on Sondheim, Cavalleria rusticana | Pagliacci, The Sound of Music, Lyric Opera of Kansas City Upcoming Conductor, The Haberdasher Prince, Lyric Opera of Kansas City Chorus Master and Assistant Conductor, Journey to Valhalla, Lyric Opera of Kansas City
INDIVIDUAL GIVING Lyric Opera of Kansas City extends its deepest appreciation to the individual contributors who help support the Company’s productions and programs. We recognize annual giving to the Company and Lyric Opera Ball of $250 or more received between January 1, 2023—January 15, 2024. *Includes contributions to Lyric Opera Ball +Includes giving to the Special Gifts Campaign
RICHARD J. STERN SOCIETY ($50,000+)
Drs. Ivan & Karla Batlle*+ Virginia & Charles Clark+ Barnett & Shirley Bush Helzberg*+ Joan Horan*+ Ingram Family Foundation* Mr. J. Michael Sigler*+ Mrs. Carol Tinsman+ Thomas & Jean McDonnell+
MAESTRO'S CIRCLE ($25,000 - $49,999)
Anonymous Ann Baum Matt & Kate Beem+ Mr. & Mrs. A. Joseph Brandmeyer Mr. & Mrs. Richard Bruening* Ken & Marilyn Hager*+ Mrs. H.D. Hale+ Innes & John Hale Mr. Edward P. Milbank* Mr. & Mrs. T.E. McCullough+ Paul & Elizabeth Uhlmann+
IMPRESARIO ($5,000 - $9,999)
Scott & Joyce Blakesley Blake & Melissa Cooper* Mrs. Una Creditor* Ann and Gary Dickinson Family Charitable Foundation* Randy & Edie Downing* Marilyn A.W. and Norman E. Gaar, Esq.* Dr. Gary Grunewald Charitable Fund Donald J. Hall* Yong Y. Han, M.D. Estate of Carolyn Kay McDill Jill Ingram Reynolds* Niles & Lindsay Jager* Tom & Kathy Nanney+ Andrew & Brittany Robb* Mr. & Mrs. Charles Schellhorn* Juliette Singer & Ian Spinks* Jug & Rachael Stanovcic Joseph & Carol Suhor* H. Wayne & Melanie Thompson Lynne & Carl Weilert*
LYRIC OPERA ANGEL ($2,500 - $4,999)
Andy & Kathy Anderson* Gary & Suzy Bennett Dr. Robert L. Claassen Mrs. Raymond Backstrom Casey Claps Mark T. Benedict & Dr. Kim Mongeau+ Phyllis Cohen Thomas & Mary Beth Butch+ Bernard & Mary Ann Craig Ann Dickinson Bernard & Nicole Craig Anthony & Meredith Durone* Andrew & Victoria Flower Richard & Lauren English+ Dr. & Mrs. James K. Gentry* Judy Kirk Kurt & Linnell Gretzinger* Dr. Melinda Estes & Dr. Harold Morris+ Richard Gutknecht Craig & Dawn Evans* Christina Hager Michael D. Fields John and Sharon Hoffman Joyce G. Holland* Caleb & Julia Jackson Kirk Foundation Mary Lou James & James Taylor Robert & Ann Regnier+ Dr. Robert E. & Dr. Rebecca Johnson Walter & Gayle Richardson Mr. & Mrs. William Kort* Steve & Linda Taylor*+ Mary Leonida*+ Mr. Michael Waterford Mira Mdivani * Ms. Connie Walker+
BEL CANTO ($10,000 - $24,999)
George & Suzy Pagels Don & Pamela Raffurty Ms. Lucinda Rice-Petrie* Michelle & Chuck Ritter Deborah Sandler Kemper & Crosby Kemper Dennis & Palle Rilinger Stephen & Dolores Schroff Linda Singer* Megan Toal Fr. Paul Turner Dr. Linda E. Voigts & Mr. Gene Voigts Dr. Edward A. Wortham, Jr. Dr. Michael J. & Cindy S. Wurm* Dr. & Mrs. John Yungmeyer*
ARIA SOCIETY ($1,500 - $2,499)
Sharon Barry* Kenneth & Norma Buchwach* Richard & Nicole Browne* Gerard & Judy Bukowski James & Diana Cusser Jo Anne & Bill Dondlinger* Mr. and Mrs. Terrence P. Dunn+ Rev. & Mrs. William J. Fasel* Trudy & Jack Gabriel Ellen & John Goheen Estate of Marrillie Good Bruce & Kathy Gordon Sue Camberlain Klein Dana Koehn* Graham & Helen Marcott Lee & Carl McCaffree Patricia E. Cleary Miller, PhD Debra & Allen Parmet Tim Pratt & Christie Geier-Pratt Ms. Lisa Flynn Pruch* Ms. Carmen M. Sabates* Clarence Simmons Rebekah Snyder Bonde* Howard & Irene Weiner
VIRTUOUSO ($1,000 - $1,499)
Anonymous Andrew & Peggy Beal* Joan and Bert Berkley Blue Heron Foundation Harvey S. Bodker Jeffrey & Diane Buczkowski Ms. Joyce Castle Nan Chapman* Vince & Julie Clark* Mr. and Mrs. Paul Copaken* Tim & Deanna Diebolt* Chuck & Joni Etherington* Ellen Feldhausen
Darold & Melinda Frenzen* Alexandra Fontana George and Frances Gerritz* Donna Gould Cohen Mr. & Mrs. Winston Grantham George Helmkamp Robert & Cynthia Hisle* Gary & Liddell Hobin Paul & Amy Holewinski* Ms. Robin L. Huff Helena & Steven Jonassen* Steve Joss Craig Kemp Mr. Michael C. Kirk Julia & Greg Malter* Barbara Loots & William J. Dickinson Mr. & Mrs. Stephen Mayer Andrew McDonald Mr. & Mrs. John Middelkamp* Donald & Linda Milligan Drs. Margaret & Barry Nickell Edward & Chris Null Joseph & Kelly Privitera* Ms. Carmen M. Sabates* Dr. & Mrs. Nelson R. Sabates* Lora Smith* Joshua & Jane Sosland Charlene Thompson Clyde & Katie Wendel Sophia C. Zetmeir Karl and Beth Zobrist
COMPRIMARIO ($500 - $999)
Robert & Ruth Abbott Ms. Ann Bender* Dara & George Bock* Roger Bond & Victoria Hermes-Bond Ronald & Kathleen Bremer Stephen & Susan Bubb* Ms. Kelly Campbell Jerry & Meghan Carpenter Arden & Mary Ann Carr Mr. C. L. Cocke Mr. H. Hurst Coffman James Cook James & Ellen Copaken* Joanne Copeland Dr. Patricia Mary Cox Dr. Suzanne C. Crandall Mr. Barry D. Culbreath II Pat & Liz Daniels Dr. Michael De Priest & Ms. Barbara Braznell Laurie & Jason Eck Steven & Carolyn Faenger* Karen Florio John & Hilary Fried* Chris & Martha Gabel Amy Garcia Mark & Nancy Gilman Steven Goldfarb* Michael & Judy Graf Carol Grantham Joan Hall* Rebecca Hawkins Samantha Herdman Lisa Merrill Hickok* Mrs. Diana Ice Dr. & Mrs. Roger Jackson* Harold & Vicki James Bradford & Ann Johnson Judith L. King Robert & Georgia Kingsley* Jolle Kirpensteijn Mouhammed Kyasa Mary Lewis Bev Leonard* Mr. Robert Lunn Amy Martin Heidi McIntyre Mr. & Mrs. Lynd K. Mische* JoZach Miller & Peter Bali* Katherine E. Myers* Barbara Nelson* Bill Palluca Stephen Platt* Vernon & Trish Podlasek* Mr. Hal Douglas Quinn* Gisele Roy
Mr. Ronald Sayer Bruce & Nancy Schall* Jon Scheinman & Anita Toby Grow Mr. and Mrs. James Schorgl Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Schrader Jim Schraeder Lynn Schweig* Karen Seaberg Suzanne Shank* Patrick & Mary Shaw Edward M. Sien Greg & Ann Smith Kelton W. H. Smith Barbara Spilker* Deirdre Squires Ms. Linda S. Stevens Dr. Jessica Stone & Mr. Benjamin Stone* Ursula Terrasi & Jim Miller* Ms. Beverly Thomas Amanda Toomey Maarten van Swaay Dr. Charles W. & Gail E. Van Way* Jeff & Alisha Walker Bryan & Jennifer Wampler* Brian Wieth & Michele Hamlett-Weith* George & Beverley Wilson Jean Wise Dean Zollman & Jackie Spears
CHORUS ($250 - $499)
David Actenberg & H. Alice Jacks Ellen & John Aisenbrey Ms. Ida B. Anderson Richard & Emily Ballentine Lee & Ellen Baty Joe & Skylar Bellinger Aaron Boorem Christopher & Sharon Bradford Bryan and Maki Brown Nathanael Brown Robert & Pamela Bruce* Mr. & Mrs. Forrest Chumley Mr. and Mrs. Robert Clark Christopher & Emily Collins Ms. Ellen Cooley Dr. & Mrs. Steve Crouch Doug & Terri Curran Cathy Daicoff Dr. & Mrs. John M. Davis Mr. Kenneth Eiler William & Eileen Everett Donna Faucheux Connie & Antoni Firner Michael Fischbach Mr. Byron Fry Mr. Andrew Garton & Mr. Levi Tobias Richard & Winifred Gill
Charles & Barbara Gorodetzky Ms. Roberta Gumbel Dr. and Mrs. Thomas B. Hall III Mr. and Mrs. George E. Handley Susan & Zack Hangauer Roger Hiatt & Patricia Haegelin-Hiatt Dr. & Mrs. Edward Higgins Mr. and Mrs. William Hirsch Belinda Holmes Bill & Margo Humenczuk Mrs. Kelly Johnson Mark & Linda Kapfer Jim David Koger Jon D. Kowing Joan Kurz & Larry Jones Rodney & Margaret LaMothe Jane Lee Judith A. Lindquist Mr. Matthew J. Maggi Mrs. Nicole Marshall-Ebersole Mrs. Julie A. McClure P. Alan McDermott
Douglas & Nina McKenna Mr. Alvin Meyer Kathy & Bill Migneron Richard & Anne Morse Andrea Norris & Tom Beisecker Mark & Lynne O’Connell Dr. & Mrs. Jorge Paradelo Ms. Maggie Presson Michael & Usha Rafferty Edward & Charlotte Ronan Brian & Dian Steele Christopher L. Sweeney James H. Taylor Mr. Robert D. Trapp Daniel L. Turner & Carol Dziadik Turner Sandra Vogel Mr. Hal vonBohnhoff Thomas Whalen Robert Wilshire & Anne McDonald Collin M. Woroniak Mrs. Barbara Weary Mr. and Mrs. Michael J. Yarnevich
For more information about giving to Lyric Opera, please contact Edward Sien at esien@kcopera.org. Thank you for your generosity to Lyric Opera of Kansas City!
INSITUTIONAL GIVING Lyric Opera of Kansas City extends its deepest appreciation to the foundations, corporations, organizations, and government entities that help support the Company’s productions and programs. We recognize annual giving to the Company and Lyric Opera Ball of $250 or more received between January 1, 2023—January 15, 2024. *Includes contributions to Lyric Opera Ball +Includes giving to the Special Gifts Campaign
OPERA PRESENTING SPONSORS: LYRIC OPERA UNDERWRITERS ($100,000+) E. Kemper Carter & Ann Curry Community Memorial Trust, UMB Bank, n.a., Trustee Hall Family Foundation Missouri Arts Council Muriel I. Kauffman Fund for the Lyric Opera of Kansas City Lyric Opera Circle Lyric Opera of Kansas City Endowment Fund Marion and Henry Bloch Family Foundation Sherman Family Foundation The Sunderland Foundation
RICHARD J. STERN SOCIETY ($50,000 - $99,999) Victor E. and Caroline E. Schutte Foundation Theater League
MAESTRO’S CIRCLE ($25,000 - $49,999)
Arvin Gottlieb Charitable Foundation, UMB Bank, n.a., Trustee Francis Family Foundation Hallmark Corporate Foundation J.B. Reynolds Foundation* Lyric Opera of Kansas City - William Randolph Hearst Endowed Fund National Endowment for the Arts Pemberton Family Charitable Foundation William T. Kemper Foundation Commerce Bank Trust
*+
*+
BEL CANTO ($10,000 - $24,999)
Cyr Family Charitable Remainder Trust EPR Properties+ Estelle S. and Robert A. Long Ellis Foundation H & R Block Foundation Merriman Foundation*+ Neighborhood Tourist Development Fund Saint Luke’s Health System The Sosland Foundation John W. and Effie E. Speas Memorial Trust Jack F. & Glenna Y. Wylie Charitable Foundation - Midwest Trust*
IMPRESARIO ($5,000 - $9,999)
Anonymous* Elsberry Family Foundation* Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation* Halls Kansas City* Lyric Opera of Kansas City Foundation Polsky Fund The Mader Foundation Mdivani Corporate Immigration Law Firm Thomas and Sally Wood Family Foundation
CORPORATE & COMMUNITY COUNCIL ($2,500 - $4,999) Burch & Company Commerce Bank, n.a.* DeBruce Foundation* JE Dunn Construction Company* High Touch Inc* Husch Blackwell LLP* R.A. Long Foundation
INSITUTIONAL GIVING CONT. Merrill Charitable Foundation, Inc. RubinBrown LLP*
CORPORATE & COMMUNITY SPONSORS ($250 - $2,499)
Vernon & Trish Podlasek, Cuorebella The Independent* Kansas City Ballet* Kitchens by Klewono* JoAnn Meierhoff Charitable Foundation
RC Williams Company* Sanofi-Aventis* Louis and Frances Swinken Supporting Foundation The Martha Lee Cain Tranby Music Enrichment Fund The Trudy Foundation TruPay UMB Financial Corporation*
THE SHINING RECORDING Lyric Opera is proud to have created the first-ever recording of Paul Moravec and Mark Campbell’s The Shining. We gratefully acknowledge the following individuals and foundations for support that made this project possible.
$10,000+
Adelphi University Thomas & Mary Beth Butch
ADDITIONAL CONTRIBUTORS
Dr. & Mrs. Ivan Batlle Alicia & John Beck Mark T. Benedict & Dr. Kim Mongeau Randy & Edie Downing Tony & Meredith Durone Richard & Lauren English Michael D. Fields Ms. Lisa Flynn Mr. & Mrs. Lafayette J. Ford III Marilyn A. W. & Norman E Gaar, Esq. Trudy & Jack Gabriel Kurt & Linnell Gretzinger Ms. Lisa Merrill Hickok John & Sharon Hoffman Niles & Lindsay Jager Mr. & Mrs. William Kort Mary Leonida
Kemper Family Foundation Richard J. Stern Foundation for the Arts Julia & Greg Malter Paul Moravec Martin & Lucy Murray Michael Phillips Dr. & Mrs. Tim Pluard Michelle & Chuck Ritter Deborah Sandler & Crosby Kemper Ms. Elizabeth A. Schellhorn Linda S. Stevens Shruti Tejwani Ty Trieu Ms. Connie Walker Jeffrey & Alisha Walker Doug P. Wells Marian Wood
The Shining ©ken howard/Lyric Opera of Kansas City
MEMORIAL GIFTS
Gifts made January 1, 2023 – January 15, 2024
In Memory of Marge Hubbard Lyric Opera Guild In Memory of Mary Ellen Purucker Jill Ingram Reynolds Lyric Opera Circle Jeannette & Scott Redick In Memory of Dr. Wes Sandness Saddle & Sirloin Club In Memory of Jean Van Stallings Lyric Opera Guild In Honor of Steve and Linda Taylor Michael & Julie Kirk In Memory of Judy L. King Annette Fibuch Friends of the Kansas City, MO Mounted Patrol Jeannette & Scott Redick Jill Ingram Reynolds Dorene Shipley Julia K. Muller and Earl Shreckengast
CONNECT WITH YOUR AUDIENCE Program Advertising for the 2023-2024 Season FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT: Christin Painter christin@kcindependent.com 816-471-2800x218
kcopera.org
ENCORE SOCIETY The Lyric Opera planned giving program allows you to share the gift of opera with future audiences and create a legacy of your own. Through the Encore Society, you support programs you are passionate about and receive tax benefits for yourself and your estate.
FOUNDING MEMBERS
Mrs. Madeline Benoit* Mrs. Jacqueline Coen* Mr. & Mrs. Bernard D. Craig Dr. Morton C. Creditor* & Mrs. Una Creditor Mr. & Mrs. Don Dagenais Mrs. Carolyn Dayani Mrs. Ann K. Dickinson Dr. Fred D. Fowler* Mrs. Caroline French* Mr. & Mrs. Keith Gard Mr. & Mrs. Joe A. Harter Mr. & Mrs. Stephen H. Hill Joyce G. Holland Mrs. Beth Ingram Mr. & Mrs. H. Elvin Knight, Jr. Dr. Revis Lewis* Mr. Jack May & Dr. Rosalie Pompushko Mr. & Mrs. Joe Miller Mrs. Vivian Menees Nelson* Mr. & Mrs. L. Joshua Sosland Mrs. Alice Statland & Dr. Harry Statland* Mrs. Carol Tinsman & Mr. C. Humbert Tinsman* Ms. Julie Holmquist Mr. Hal vonBohnhoff Dwight Youngman
CHARTER MEMBERS
Mr. Bob Baughman* Mrs. Carolyn Gordanier Mr. & Mrs. John Grow Gary D. Harms John Kander Elizabeth Liftin* Virginia M. Long Ann T. Reed Mr. & Mrs. Jack Rosenfield Lisa Sicola Mr. J. Michael Sigler Mr. John J. Strandberg* Mr. Thomas Sotham* Dr. Wilma B. Wilcox Ms. Paula Winans Mr. & Mrs. Jonah Wright
LEGACY MEMBERS
Carolyn Banta Matt & Kate Beem Jerry & Meghan Carpenter Craig & Dawn Evans Dr. Michael Frost Hilda Gibbs Trust Fund – Rae Ann DeVargas Trustee* Ken & Marilyn Hager Mr. Richard Hill* Lothar P. Kraus* Dr. Melinda Estes & Dr. Harold Morris Mr. & Mrs. Doyle Patterson* Steve & Linda Taylor Thomas & Loren Whittaker Annie Zinn* *Deceased
For more information contact Edward Sien, Chief Development Officer, at (816) 802-6058 or visit kcopera.org/planned-giving.
A Kansas City tradition since 1899 Contact Laura Gabriel at 816.471.2800 or Laura@kcindependent.com to purchase a gift subscription today. 2400 West 75th Street, Suite 210 • Prairie Village, KS 66208
Celebrating 60 years of transformative theatre with a season featuring an exciting mix of crowd-pleasing and riveting new plays and musicals. By Edmond Rostand Freely Adapted by Martin Crimp Directed by Associate Artistic Director Nelson T. Eusebio III
SEP 5 - SEP 24 Spencer TheaTre Lead Sponsor:
Written by Heidi Schreck Directed by Amy Anders Corcoran
OCT 24 -NOV 12 copaken STage Written by Christina Ham Directed by Malkia Stampley Co-Produced with Milwaukee Repertory Theatre
FEB 13 - MAR 3 copaken STage Lead Sponsor:
Book & Lyrics by Howard Ashman Music by Alan Menken Directed by Artistic Director Stuart Carden
APR 30 - MAY 19 Spencer TheaTre
Come CELEBRATE with us! For tickets, play descriptions, and more, visit KCRep.org or call our Box Office at 816.235.2700. KCRep is the professional theatre in residence at UMKC
KCRep is the professional theatre in residence at UMKC 28
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APPRENTICE ARTIST PROGRAM Lyric Opera’s Apprentice Artist Program gives university vocal students the opportunity to gain valuable experience and training on their way to becoming professional opera singers. Throughout the season, our Apprentice Artists gain practical career experience working alongside the industry’s most notable singers, conductors, and directors. Learn more about our artist development programs at kcopera.org/learning.
ALEXIS MERRY (Soprano) University of Missouri-Kansas City
Alexis Merry returns as a second-year Lyric Opera of Kansas City Artist Apprentice. Recent roles include Anna Maurrant (Street Scene) and Countess Almaviva (The Marriage of Figaro) at Varna International, Mrs. Zegner (Proving Up) and Galatea (Handel’s Acis and Galatea) with University of Missouri-Kansas City, Rosalinde (Die Fledermaus) and Donna Elvira (Don Giovanni) with Pepperdine University. Merry has participated in masterclasses with Jake Heggie, William Bolcom, and Stephanie Blythe. Merry holds a bachelor’s degree in music performance from Pepperdine University and a master’s degree from University of Missouri-Kansas City. Merry is currently seeking an artist certificate at University of Missouri-Kansas City.
DEANNA RAY EBERHART (Mezzo-Soprano) University of Kansas
Mezzo-soprano Deanna Ray Eberhart is a second-year Lyric Opera of Kansas City Apprentice Artist. Previous roles include Alidora (Cinderella), Little Buttercup (H.M.S. Pinafore), La Zia Principessa (Suor Angelica), Clorinda (Il combattimento di Tancredi e Clorinda), and Arsamene (Serse). Upcoming roles include Gertrude (Roméo et Juliette). Eberhart is a native of Kansas City, Missouri and received her bachelor’s degree in music from the University of Northern Iowa where she studied with Dr. Jean McDonald. She is currently pursuing a Master of Music in Voice Performance at The University of Kansas under the direction of Joyce Castle and Dr. Genaro Mendez.
ANGELO SILVA (Tenor)
University of Missouri-Kansas City Tenor Angelo Silva’s recent engagements include Miles in Missy Mazzoli’s Proving Up and the Conservatory Singers Choir Ensemble at University of Missouri-Kansas City. Upcoming roles include Rinuccio (Gianni Schicchi) with Amarillo Opera in 2024. Silva holds a bachelor’s degree in applied voice from Pepperdine University and is currently seeking a master’s degree in voice performance at University of Missouri-Kansas City.
RILEY FINDLEY (Baritone) William Jewell College
Baritone Riley Findley’s recent roles include Gianni Schicchi (Gianni Schicchi) with Opera Lucca, James Mills (The House Without a Christmas Tree) and Albert (Werther) with William Jewell College. Notable roles include Sam (Trouble in Tahiti), Peter Quince (A Midsummer Night’s Dream), and Melisso (Alcina). Findley holds a bachelor’s degree in music from William Jewell College where he is currently obtaining an artist performance certificate. Findley plans to continue graduate study in voice performance at Indiana University.
The Music is Calling. Where will it take you? Clas sic al, Pop s, Family, Holiday and Film + L ive Orche stra Joy-filled per formances from only $25.
Join us f or Music D irec tor Michael S tern’s f inal season.
( 8 1 6) 4 7 1 - 0 4 0 0 | kc sym p hony. org
A Full-Service Law Firm Experienced Attorneys Serving the Midwest and Beyond • Trusted by Prominent Organizations for Business Law and Litigation • 19 Practice Groups in Seven Industries
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The KANSAS CITY ROSE SOCIETY offers: A FREE, World-Class Rose Garden in Loose Park Affordable Memberships • A Network of Gardening Enthusiasts • Rose Care & Tips Annual Rose Show • Seasonal Garden Parties
love is a rose program
Have a rose bush planted and dedicated to your loved one! A truly unique gift or memorial.
kansascityrosesociety.org
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Best U.S. Small Town to Visit TravelAwaits (2023)
Top 10 True Western Town of the Year True West Magazine (2023)
st “ The proguI dcaen thin im is
that
cla I am from
Abilene.”
- Dwight
ower D. Eisenh
Best Historic Small Town USA TODAY (2023)
Visit the Eisenhower Presidential Library and Museum to experience Ike and Mamie’s story in their own words.
WORLD-CHANGING CREATIVITY
We invite you to experience the transformative power of dance, music and theatre at the UMKC Conservatory.
Photo: Brandon Parigo. UMKC
conservatory.umkc.edu
"The art challenges the technology, and the technology inspires the art." - John Lasseter
At ECCO Select, our people combine art and technology for extraordinary client experience. We offer specialized talent and technology solutions tailored to each client’s unique needs.
THE TALENT BEHIND THE TECHNOLOGY KANSAS CITY, MO | WASHINGTON, DC | ST. LOUIS, MO WBE/MBE CERTIFIED | WWW.ECCOSELECT.COM | 888.567.ECCO
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Fantastic dry-aged steaks, classic cocktails and live Jazz nightly in KC’s historic Downtown saloon. 931 Broadway Kansas City, MO 64105 816-221-1888 www.majestickc.com
Featuring a daily Happy Hour and Sunday Brunch
GrandmasCatering.com
LYRIC OPERA PATRON SERVICES Phone: (816) 471-7344 Email: patronservices@kcopera.org Mail: Lyric Opera Patron Services, 1725 Holmes St., KCMO 64108 Regular Business Hours: Monday - Friday, 10:00 am to 5:00 pm Weekend Performance Day Hours (mainstage only): For performance weekend hours, please visit kcopera.org. Ticketing & Patron Services representatives are available at the Kauffman Center box office beginning 90 minutes before every performance and through the first intermission.
GROUP TICKETS BRING A GROUP TO THE OPERA! Group orders of 10 or more seats receive up to a 25% off discount, subject to standard facility fees. To book your group today and learn about options to amplify the experience, call Ticketing & Patron Services at (816) 471-7344 or visit kcopera.org/groups.
OPEN YOUR WORLD.
Emergency Evacuation Procedures The Kauffman Center is equipped with advanced life-safety early alert systems. Each performance hall is designed with emergency exits in case of an evacuation. In the event of severe weather, shelter in place inside the hall, not in a lobby area, and await further instructions.
In the event of an emergency, the performance will be interrupted. Horns and strobes will sound. Emergency instructions will be delivered from the stage.
Please remain seated as staff use an appropriate amount of investigational time to verify the source of the alarm.* Should an evacuation be necessary, lighted red (Muriel Kauffman Theatre) and green (Helzberg Hall) exit signs will lead patrons to one of eight emergency exit paths.
Patrons with mobility limitations and/or those who are not able to navigate stairs should remain in the venue near one of the marked “Emergency Evacuation Assistance” areas. First responders will evacuate those requiring assistance immediately upon their arrival.
Elevators, primary entrances and the Brandmeyer Great Hall staircase are NOT used in the case of an emergency evacuation.
For more information on emergency evacuation procedures, visit kauffmancenter.org/policies
*Kauffman Center’s emergency egress plan, which includes an appropriate amount of investigational time to verify the source of an alarm, was developed with the assistance of the Kansas City, MO Fire Marshall’s Office.
PARK
I N T E R N AT I O N A L
CENTER
FOR
MUSIC
When Stanislav loudenitch first started the Park International Center for Music, he began with a simple concept. Find exceptional music teachers, and give them the time, tools, focus, and dedication needed to transform exceptional students into masters themselves. An internationally-recognized Van Cliburn gold medalist, Ioudenitch assembled a team that shared his world-class skills and his passion for teaching. Other outstanding programs have great master instructors. But no other American conservatory lets those masters devote the time to their students like they do at Park ICM. Not even storied programs like Juilliard, Curtis, or Eastman.
Come experience the birth of our international stars. Visit ICM.PARK.EDU for our concert schedule today.
“These featured soloists from Park University’s International Center for Music represent not only the quality of performance in Kansas City, but the future of it, too.” – T H E K A N S A S C I T Y S TA R
Discover nature with us. This institution is an equal opportunity provider.
Nature Centers
Open SaturdayS
Burr Oak Woods Nature Center
1401 NW Park Road, Blue Springs 816-228-3766 www.mdc.mo.gov/burroakwoods
Anita B. Gorman Discovery Center
4750 Troost Aveue, Kansas City 816-759-7300 www.mdc.mo.gov/discoverycenter
M i s s o u r i D e p a r t M e n t o f C o n s e r v at i o n
ARE YOU READY FOR AN EPIC MUSICAL JOURNEY?
Get tickets to Journey to Valhalla today! Scan the QR code, visit kcopera.org, or call us at (816) 471-7344 to purchase.
April 6–23, 2024 Music by Rosabella Gregory | Words by Dina Gregory Based on The Haberdasher Prince by Dina Gregory, an Audible Original
TOURING KANSAS CITY COMMUNITY SPACES
Join us for The Haberdasher Prince! Scan the QR code, visit kcopera.org, or call us at (816) 471-7344.
The Lyric Opera Ball Celebrates
April 20, 2024 Kansas City Marriott Downtown Muehlebach Tower Join us for this elegant affair, complete with a curated silent auction, “pop-up” opera performances, dinner and dancing Tickets at kcopera.org/2024ball
LYRIC OPERA STAFF LEADERSHIP
Deborah Sandler Kemper, General Director and CEO
FINANCE & ADMINISTRATION
Jeffrey Walker, Chief Financial Officer Danny Boteler, Controller Amy Tungol, HR & Payroll Specialist Melissa Roberts, Executive Assistant & Board Liaison
ARTISTIC ADMINISTRATION
Brad Trexell, Director of Artistic Administration Piotr Wiśniewski, Head of Music Staff & Chorus Master Michaela Martens, Resident Artist Voice Teacher
LEARNING
Neal Long, Director of Learning Emily Bridges, Manager of Learning
PRODUCTION
Tracy Davis-Singh, Director of Production Brad Kanouse, Technical Director Sarah Zsohar, Artist Services Manager Rafael Toribio, Associate Technical Director
DEVELOPMENT
Edward Sien, Chief Development Officer Rebecca Ballinger Clark, Manager of Institutional Giving Laurie Eck, Manager of Development Operations & Donor Research Will Brubaker, Development Concierge
MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS
Gregory Campbell, Director of Marketing & Communications Amanda Schuster, Senior Manager of Ticketing & Patron Services Beth Wamsley, Marketing Operations & Social Media Manager Enrique Zabala, Graphic Design Specialist Emily Stott, Assistant Manager of Ticketing and Patron Services Ellen McDonald, Publicity Consultant Ticketing & Patron Services Representatives: Jeff Borrett, Madeline Cain, Catherine Cone, Aimee McCormack,Josephine Meyers, Jonathon Moldovan, Dennis Pearson, Brianna Volkmann,
LEGAL COUNSEL
Wade Kerrigan, Husch Blackwell, LLP, General Counsel
What light through yonder window breaks? It’s the light of making a difference in your community! Congratulations to the cast and crew on another successful production!
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WITH YOU WHERE YOU ARE. Since 1857, we've been with you, supporting our community, lifting up the arts and helping you earn, save and do more.
BANKING • MORTGAGE • WEALTH • BUSINESS Only deposit products are FDIC insured. Investment Products are: Not FDIC Insured | Not a Deposit or Other Obligation of the Bank | Not Insured by any Federal Government Agency | Not Guaranteed by the Bank | May Lose Value
“It’s not just a wall of kind words. It’s inspiration that keeps me going.” - Jaime Bartley, RN Director of Nursing,Transplant
Every day my team and I try to give hope, and sometimes life itself, to patients and their families. It’s an amazing privilege. But it comes with the feeling of wondering if we could do even more. Then a card comes. Those few kind words remind us of the difference we’re making. There’s no better feeling than that. To schedule an appointment, call 913-588-1227 or visit KansasHealthSystem.com/Appointments.