Lyric Opera 2021-2022 Issue 7 Fire Shut Up My Bones

Lyric Opera of Chicago | 41 This fully-staged production made its premiere a few seasons ago to critical and audience acclaim. Its recently announced revival demonstrates Lyric’s commitment to engaging music lovers of all ages. Designed for patrons 5 to 10 years old—and, of course, their grown escorts— The Magic Victrola has a broad and dazzling appeal. “The audience loved it all,” wrote the Chicago Sun-Times of the premiere. “The future of this magical and multifaceted art form had another great boost.” The Magic Victrola adventure begins when Gracie and Sam are dropped off at their Grandpa’s place for summer vacation. While at first the kids are less than excited to be without their modern comforts, things get much more interesting when they discover their grandfather’s old victrola, and his prized collection of opera records suddenly come to life! With the help of the mysterious birdman, Papageno, Gracie and Sam are off on a musical adventure through some of opera’s most delightful hits. Lyric is eager to welcome the Chicago community to experience the magic of live opera performance on Sunday, April 24. “This will be an introduction to the world of opera for many of our youngest audience members, so we want to make it as accessible and enjoyable as possible. The vibrant sets and costumes bring the opera stories to life. The Magic Victrola is our opportunity to open the doors of Lyric and invite audiences of all ages to experience the excitement of the art form,” says Vice President of Lyric Unlimited Robert C. Goodwin. “Lyric is always seeking opportunities to engage new audiences in Chicago and to offer unique artistic experiences.” The Chicago Tribune noted that the premiere had “a sizable audience of kids and their elders giggling and applauding in merry discovery.” It’s a thrilling afternoon, re-discovering old favorites with those who are hearing some of opera’s glories for the very first time. The Magic Victrola features highlights and excerpts from some of the repertoire’s most beloved works, including The Magic Flute , The Tales of Hoffmann , The Elixir of Love , Delibes’s Lakmé , Gianni Schicchi , and Carmen among others. Casting will feature some of the extraordinary artists from Lyric’s Patrick G. and Shirley W. Ryan Opera Center—stars in the making—along with members of the Lyric Opera Orchestra and other performers. This special presentation of The Magic Victrola also features affordably priced tickets. At $5 for children and $10 for adults, it is, quite literally, affordable family fun. Lyric prioritizes the health and safety of our audiences and artists. All audience members will need to show proof of fully vaccinated status and remain masked at all times within the opera house. We regret that children not yet eligible for vaccination will not be able to attend this production. We look forward to welcoming you, your family, and friends to this special performance of The Magic Victrola . To learn more about The Magic Victrola and purchase your tickets today, visit lyricopera.org/magicvictrola.