Lyric Opera 2024-2025 Issue 7 - La bohème

Lyric Opera of Chicago | 70 Powerful Partnership “It was always my dream to get a residency,” says Hitch Elementary music teacher Amy Cholod. That dream came true in 2019, when Hitch Elementary was accepted into Lyric Unlimited’s Elementary Opera Residency program. What followed would be a fruitful, ongoing partnership with the company’s Learning and Civic Engagement department, spanning five years and reaching hundreds of students. Thanks to Cholod, Lyric teaching artist Lauren Ingebrigtsen, and second grade teacher Deborah Davis, Hitch Elementary students ranging from kindergarten to eighth grade get invaluable exposure to the performing arts. Among the resources the school receives are: the time and attention of a Lyric teaching artist; bus scholarships to transport students to Lyric for dress rehearsals; and tickets to Opera in the Neighborhoods performances. “I love the arts,” Cholod says. “I love supporting the arts. I’ve lived my life trying to bring music, and especially opera, to the classroom.” Her efforts are tangible: Cholod has attended Lyric-hosted teacher professional development workshops for five consecutive years, and her students put on multiple performances throughout the course of the school year. In 2024/25, the students had a holiday presentation and a spring musical — in addition to creating an original opera through the Opera Residency. And the school’s engagement goes even wider: Cholod enlists the help of the other grades, especially students who have previously participated, to help with the productions. The students take on roles ranging from soundboard mixers and runners to usher and lighting specialist. Cholod’s collaboration with Lyric teaching artist Lauren Ingebrigtsen has been particularly impactful. Ingebrigtsen has a notable history with Lyric, from being the company’s first social media intern and receiving lessons from Patrick G. and Shirley W. Ryan Opera Center Director of Vocal Studies Julia Faulkner to her current role as a teaching artist. And while she has worked with many schools, Hitch Elementary holds a special place in her heart. Lyric teaching artist Lauren Ingebrigtsen brings infectious energy to a workshop. By Casey Bowman Hitch Elementary exemplifies the enduring impact and joyous possibilities of Lyric Unlimited’s Opera Residencies program. Kyle Flubacker