Learn & engage

Igniting creativity across Chicago

Through innovative learning opportunities, community partnerships, and artistic creation and collaboration, Lyric engages students, educators, families, arts aficionados, and Chicagoans of all backgrounds—elevating the power of opera as a tool for discovery and a catalyst for change.

We provide a range of programs designed to stimulate curiosity, explore new formats, and make connections between opera and every day life. New commissions and contemporary works speak to Chicago audiences with bold themes and relevant stories.

We champion stories that deserve to be heard. 

Lyric Unlimited - Learning & Creative Engagement

Lyric Unlimited - Learning & Creative Engagement

Established in 2012, Lyric Unlimited - Learning & Creative Engagement is Lyric's department dedicated to education and community initatives that's positioned to connect the city through collaborative programming.

On average, approximately 100,000 people experience programming  each season, including:

  • Individuals from 157 towns, cities, and villages across Chicago and the Midwest
  • Over 35,000 students annually from 463 schools, with approximately one-third representing Chicago Public Schools
  • Collaborating with 54 community partner organizations
  • To date, presenting 56 operas, concerts, and special events throughout the community
  • Presenting work at more than 25 venues around the Chicagoland area

Lyric Unlimited - Learning & Creative Engagement Sponsors

Anonymous Donor

Nancy W. Knowles Student and Family Performances Fund

Dr. Scholl Foundation

BMO Harris Bank Logo

Walter Family Foundation

The Richard P. & Susan Kiphart Family

Shure Charitable Trust

Eisen Family Foundation

Robert and Evelyn McCullen

Marsha Serlin and Jerry Sloan

Charles and M.R. Shapiro Foundation, Inc.

Terry J. Medhurst

Mazza Foundation

Buehler Family Foundation

Wintrust Community Banks

Helen Brach Foundation

The Siragusa Family Foundation

Polk Bros. Foundation

Lloyd A. Fry Foundation

Raynette and Ned Boshell

John and Rosemary Brown Family Foundation

John Hart and Carol Prins

The Simon Family Foundation

Photos: Kyle Flubacker, Jaclyn Simpson