Lyric Opera 2024-2025 Issue 7 - La bohème

15 | Lyric Opera of Chicago as a former brass player, he says, he particularly favors that composer as well as Wagner). “As you know, there is a wide variety to how things are staged and styled,” he says. “You have everything from very traditional to very esoteric and modern. The idea that you could go to an opera that is hundreds of years old, and maybe you don’t know exactly what you are going to see — I was hooked immediately by that.” He became a member of Lyric Young Professionals in 2016, and joined the board in 2019. There are other accountants as well–but Dewan is quick to reiterate the diversity of the membership. “Despite our name, there aren’t any title requirements. We’ve got doctors and lawyers, teachers and writers and engineers. It can provide networking for some people, but a lot of people don’t do that at all. And I always explain to people that you don’t have to know anything. You don’t have to speak Italian. It’s about sharing the experience.” In some ways, the activities of Lyric Young Professionals harken back to an earlier age, when opera going was more a part of regular social life. Audiences of today, younger audiences especially, schedule their entertainment much later than in decades past, and the group’s relaxed approach and the flexibility of their ticket packages makes that easier. “Young people want an outlet to meet people, and this is one of the best ways to do it, in my opinion,” says Levi- Paesky. “We’re providing an option, an avenue for building philanthropy and building impact in your community.” “And I always say it’s incredible value — the best ticket deal you’ll get in town,” adds Dewan — and the CPA makes it sound like a professional assessment. “Real seats at the opera for $35. I don’t know how you’re going to top that.” For more information please visit: https://www.lyricopera.org/about/get- involved/lyric-young-professionals/ Upcoming Mix and Medley events: La Bohème , March 28 The Listeners , April 8 Clockwise: The Moonlight Social gathered old friends and new; Sondra Radvanovsky attended the festivities after her triumphant performance; the stunning decor made for great photos.