Lyric Opera of Kansas City, Cavalleria Rusticana | Pagliacci (2023)

WRITTEN AND DIRECTED BY TERENCE O'MALLEY MUSIC BY DANIEL DOSS DIR. OF PHOTOGRAPHY JON TROZZOLO STARRING JULIE POPE, T. ERIC MORRIS AND TIM AHLENIUS

COSTUMES BY LINDA FLAKE AND SARAH OLIVER CHOREOGRAPHER AMY HURRELBRINK PRODUCTION DESIGNER SCOTT MURRAY

A NOTE FROM DEBORAH SANDLER KEMPER

With great excitement, I welcome you to the timeless masterpieces Cavalleria rusticana and Pagliacci. We are thrilled to have you join us for this captivating double bill, a night filled with emotion, drama, and the power of human expression through the beauty of opera.

We strive to bring the finest works of the operatic repertoire to our audiences, and Cavalleria rusticana and Pagliacci perfectly embody the grandeur and raw emotion of opera. Cavalleria rusticana delves into a tale of love, betrayal, and honor set in a Sicilian village. As passions run high, we witness the profound consequences that arise from human desires and the collision of unwavering traditions. Pagliacci, on the other hand, takes us into the world of a traveling commedia dell’arte troupe. The lines between art and reality blur as the characters grapple with jealousy and heartbreak.

Our dedicated cast, under the direction of Shawna Lucey, have poured their hearts and souls into their performances. We are privileged to have some of the finest vocal talents gracing our stage, led by conductor, Roberto Kalb, whose artistry breathes life into every note.

In addition to our mainstage work, Lyric Opera offers transformative education and community engagement programs. This season, we are doing more than ever before, including touring The Haberdasher Prince—an opera for all ages— to community spaces where families gather. Join us!

Please enjoy the performance and may the magic of Cavalleria rusticana and Pagliacci transport you to a world of profound emotions and artistic brilliance.

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

Alicia Beck

Richard P. Bruening

Tom Butch

Dr. Melinda Estes

Michael D. Fields

Kenneth V. Hager

EX-OFFICIO MEMBERS

Mary Leonida

Mira Mdivani

Edward P. Milbank

Thomas E. Nanney

Andrew Robb

Jug Stanovcic

Steve Taylor

Carmen Sabates | President, Lyric Opera Circle

Sharon Barry | 2024 Ball Chair, Lyric Opera Circle

Deanna Diebolt | 2024 Ball Chair, Lyric Opera Circle

LEGAL COUNSEL, EX-OFFICIO MEMBER

Wade Kerrigan, Husch Blackwell, LLP, General Counsel

University Health Employee Recognition Systems Luncheon

Urban League of Greater KC Difference Maker Awards Luncheon

Boulevard of Dreams Gala Benefiting the Dream Factory of KC

Shawnee Mission East High School Prom

KC Care Health Center

Employee Appreciation Day

Pride Night

Rockhurst High School

Hurtado Scholars Banquet

Evergy Family Fun Day

C-Suite Success May Summit

Women Who Mean Business Reception

Starlight would like to recognize these organizations and businesses who have hosted events at Starlight. Thank you! Find

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.

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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.

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 (DerVogelhändler). 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.

Where Love Takes Center Stage: KC’s Leading Engagement Ring Store

AIZURI QUARTET

Sep. 23 | 1900 Building

“NEW HORIZONS”

Oct. 7 | 1900 Building

VOCES8

Oct. 21 | Village Presbyterian

QUARTETTO di CREMONA

Oct. 28 | Grace & Holy Trinity

SIR ANDRÁS SCHIFF

Nov. 14 | Kauffman Center

ALESSIO BAX & LUCILLE CHUNG

Dec. 5 | The Folly Theater

“EXTRAORDINARY IMAGINATIONS”

Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center

Jan. 20 | The Folly Theater

APOLLON MUSAGÈTE QUARTET

Feb. 2 | The Folly Theater

JEREMY DENK

Feb. 13 | The Folly Theater

LE CONSORT

Mar. 1 | Grace & Holy Trinity

QUICKSILVER

Apr. 5 | Grace & Holy Trinity

“SPARK OF GENIUS”

Apr. 26 | The Folly Theater

CHANTICLEER

May 3 | Atonement Lutheran

HELP CREATE THE MAGIC OF OPERA

Opera has the unique ability to fire our imaginations and capture our hearts. Our donors make it possible for everyone in the Kansas City region, including area students, to be enchanted by the finest in opera.

Help create the magic! Every gift is meaningful. Exciting benefits that can enhance your opera experience are available to donors at certain levels. For more information about becoming a donor and the opportunities you can receive in appreciation of your generosity, please visit our website or contact our team.

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Scan the QR code below, contact Michael Breeden at mbreeden@kcopera.org, or visit kcopera.org/donate

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

A New Day in

Breath

PRINCIPAL CAST

CAVALLERIA RUSTICANA

Turiddu

Santuzza

Mamma Lucia

Alfio

Lola

Peasant Woman

PAGLIACCI

Tonio

Canio

Beppe

Nedda

Silvio

Peasant #1

Peasant #2

* Lyric Opera Debut

^ Lyric Opera Resident Artist

Adam Smith*

Samantha Hankey*

Jill Grove*

Gevorg Hakobyan*

Christine Boddicker*^

Julia Scozzafava

Gevorg Hakobyan*

Diego Torre*

Benjamin Ruiz*^

Gabriella Reyes*

Luke Sutliff*

Riley Findley

Tytus Abrahamson

Cavalleria rusticana was first performed at Teatro Costanzi, 1890

Pagliacci was first performed at Teatro Dal Verme, 1892

Presented in Italian with English titles

Title translations by Jeremy Sortore

Running Time: Three hours with one intermission

SEASON SPONSORS:

Financial assistance for this project has been provided by the Missouri Arts Council, a state agency.

Costumes provided by Sarasota Opera Association, Inc.

Stage crew provided by IATSE Local 31

Wardrobe crew provided by the Theatrical Wardrobe Union Local 810

Samantha Hankey’s performance is sponsored in part by John and Sharon Hoffman

The creation of the set for Cavalleria rusticana and Pagliacci was funded, in part, by a grant from the Sunderland Foundation.

CREATIVE TEAM

CONDUCTOR

DIRECTOR

ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR

SET DESIGNER

COSTUME DESIGNER

LIGHTING DESIGNER

ASSOCIATE LIGHTING DESIGNER

WIG AND MAKE-UP DESIGNER

FIGHT CHOREOGRAPHER

CHORUS MASTER

REHEARSAL ACCOMPANISTS

MUSIC LIBRARIAN

PROPS SUPERVISOR

LIGHTING SUPERVISOR

COSTUME COORDINATOR

WIG AND MAKE-UP ASSISTANTS

TITLES OPERATOR

STAGE MANAGER

ASSISTANT STAGE MANAGERS

PRODUCTION ASSISTANT

CHILD COORDINATORS

PRODUCTION CARPENTER

HEAD PROPSMAN

HEAD ELECTRICIAN

HEAD FLYMAN

HEAD SOUND ENGINEER

WARDROBE SUPERVISOR

WARDROBE ASSISTANT

HEAD SCENIC ARTIST

SCENIC ARTISTS

SCENIC CARPENTERS

SPECIALTY PROPS

Roberto Kalb

Shawna Lucey

Gregory Boyle*

Steven C. Kemp

Edward Kotanen*

Michael James Clark

Selena Gonzalez-Lopez

David Zimmerman

Martin English

Piotr Wiśniewski

Piotr Wiśniewski, Jimin Seo*

Elena Lence-Talley

Erik Palmquist

Selena Gonzalez-Lopez

Nancy Robinson

Blaine Shepherd, Oran Wongpandid

Sarah Zsohar

Alayna Powell

Caroline Jackson, Jess Tibboles

Liz Lee*

Jeninne Coleman, Liz Lee*

Melvin McClenahan

Steve Cochran

Joshua Topping

Evan Suellentrop

Grant Conrad

Desiree Baird Story

Amanda McCarty

Bethany Elliott*

Charles Moore, Maggie Killian, Mark Exline

Stephen Cochran, Kyle Deckman, James Hare, Dale Klamm, Melvin McClenahan

Gen Goering, Corey Goering, Deborah Morgan

CONSTRUCTION DRAFTSMEN

Brad Kanouse, Rafael Toribio

* Lyric Debut

CHORUS

SOPRANO

Cassie Banion

Victoria Botero

Nicole Burkhart*

Kathryn Long

Anna Mans

Alexis Merry~

Kristin Newbegin

Mary Lou Pagano

Marci Ziegler@

MEZZO

Gwendolyn DeLaney*

Deanna Ray Eberhart+

Jennifer Forman*

Elaine Fox@

Julia Elise Hardin*

Sarah Lockwood

Mackenzie Phillips

Julia Scozzafava@

Jennifer Weiman

TENOR

Tytus Abrahamson@

Zachary K. Devin@

Hunter Eisenmenger*

Andrew Flanagin

Trent Green

Daniel J. Loganbill*

Angelo Silva*~

Truman Grant*

Brian Sussman

BASS/BARITONE

Matthew Black

Powell Brumm

Phil Eatherton

Riley Findley#

Terence Murphy@

Evan J. Nelson

Eli Panek*

Nathan Whitson

Ron Witzke

CHILDREN’S CHORUS

Amelia Abrahamson

Lorenzo Botero>

Sloane Burgess*>

Evan Daggett

Isaac Fisher*>

Arlo Good*

Elena Green

Josie Green

Evelyn Reese Hale*>

Carlyn Hill

Bridget Mackenzie*

Claire Painter>

Brodi Schlagel>

Evelyn Welzenbach

Liam Welzenbach

Nora Welzenbach*

~ UMKC Apprentice + KU Apprentice ^ Lyric Opera Resident Artist

* Lyric Debut # William Jewell Apprentice @ Past Apprentice

> Also performing as a super in Cavalleria rusticana

SUPERNUMERARIES

Cavalleria rusticana only

Ben Brandmeyer*

Steven Brockschmidt*

Deborah Carr

Josh Keen*

Erin Klehm

Erin Klubek

Will Petrie

Natasha Roh

Mark Spencer

Ernesto Suarez

James Symmonds

Matthew Brun

Muriel Kauffman Theatre photo by Don Ipock for Lyric Opera of Kansas City

* Lyric Debut

CONDUCTOR’S NOTES

by Roberto Kalb

The celestial melodies and resonant chords of Mascagni’s prelude to Cavalleria rusticana (1890) herald not just the beginning of an opera but a doorway into the very heart of Italian verismo. Together with Leoncavallo’s fiery Pagliacci (1892) this beloved double bill offers a visceral and thrilling exploration of raw human emotion, passion, and the dramatic interplay of life and art.

It’s no surprise that Cavalleria rusticana and Pagliacci are often paired together; they share not only the verismo style, with its emphasis on realism and psychological insight, but also a deep connection to the cultural fabric of late 19th-century Italy. The world they depict is one of intensity and contrast, filled with love, jealousy, betrayal, and, ultimately, tragic consequences.

Cavalleria rusticana presents a powerful portrait of rural Sicilian life, where honor, religion, and tradition weigh heavily on the characters. Mascagni’s rich orchestration and melodic lines bring to life the very soil and air of this rustic landscape, creating an environment in which Santuzza’s desperation and Turiddu’s impulsiveness can unravel in a tragically inevitable course. The famous Intermezzo, a poignant and eloquent piece, speaks directly to our shared humanity, a yearning towards God, and a transcending of time and place.

Similarly, Pagliacci paints a vivid picture but takes us into the world of a traveling theater troupe. Here, Leoncavallo’s brilliant score weaves a complex narrative where the boundary between performance and reality blurs. The passionate drama within the play mirrors the tumultuous relationships outside of it, culminating in the heart-wrenching realization that “the comedy is over.”

These operas’ strengths lie not only in their dramatic narrative and evocative music but in their exploration of universal human emotions. They delve into the complexities of love, betrayal, and honor, reflecting a raw honesty that continues to resonate with audiences today.

Shawna Lucey’s new production and ingenious direction will undoubtedly communicate beautifully to the audience. The partnership with the Kansas City Symphony for this production is an exciting one. Their prowess in translating notes into a living, breathing embodiment of the composers’ intentions will undoubtedly enrich the performance. The unbeatable world-class cast, dedicated chorus, and the entire Lyric Opera team’s collaboration promise a stirring rendition of these timeless works.

Whether you are revisiting these works or experiencing them for the first time, I invite you to immerse yourself in the gripping drama, the exquisite music, and the pulsating emotions that define these operas.

DIRECTOR’S NOTES

by Shawna Lucey

Cavalleria rusticana and Pagliacci are two operas with sweeping and arresting orchestral scores that capture the heart and hold the listener entranced. The scale of the musical gestures matches the hurricane of feelings that engulf the characters into heightened emotional states, leading to tragic turns of events in each opera.

When considering the two operas paired together, the portrayal of violence intrigued us. In Cavalleria rusticana, violence occurs offstage and is reported back to the characters on stage, but in Pagliacci, violence is center stage. The progression of how murder happens in these two operas drew us to set them in one community.

The factors that led to greater tolerance or acceptance of intimate violence—reminiscent of how Italian society changed due to the world wars—inspired our approach to marrying the two operas. Vitaliano Brancati’s novel Il bell’Antonio, an exploration of how Italian language and society responded to war, provided inspiration for this approach.

Thus, we set our operas in the same Sicilian village separated by World War I. Cavalleria rusticana depicts life in an agrarian community before large-scale warfare shapes its comprehension of violence. We encounter Santuzza, whose changing appearance from her out-of-wedlock pregnancy keeps her from church. This inspires tongue-wagging and speculation in a community where everyone’s business is witnessed in the town square.

The village’s children observe how deceit is answered by violence. This observation lays the groundwork for one boy who, in particular, learns how to assuage wounded pride. By combining childhood understanding of intimate partner betrayal leading to violent reprisal with the atrocities of World War I, Pagliacci’s actions are underpinned by the resulting numbness and acceptance of violent responses. The boy of Cavalleria rusticana later becomes the maligned Canio in Pagliacci, whose wife’s betrayal breaks his mind and goads him into violent action.

The profound musical gestures of both operas highlight how intimate relationships exist in the larger context of community and the societal changes imposed by war. The evocative orchestral pictures reflect the overpowering emotions of the characters in each piece, lending them a place in the eternal power of the best of opera.

CAVALLERIA RUSTICANA

A village in Sicily, circa 1900.

At dawn on Easter Sunday, Turiddu sings in the distance of his love for Lola, wife of the carter Alfio. She and Turiddu had been a couple before he joined the army. When he returned and found her married to Alfio, he seduced Santuzza but now has abandoned her and rekindled his relationship with Lola. Later in the morning, a distraught Santuzza approaches the tavern of Mamma Lucia, Turiddu’s mother, who tells her that her son is away buying wine. But Santuzza knows that Turiddu has been seen during the night in the village. Alfio arrives with a group of men, boasting of his horses—and of Lola. He asks Mamma Lucia if she has any more of her good wine. When she says that Turiddu has gone to get more, Alfio replies that he saw him near his house that same morning. Lucia is surprised, but Santuzza tells her to keep quiet. As the villagers follow the procession to church, Santuzza stays behind and pours out her grief about Turiddu to Mamma Lucia. The old woman expresses her pity, then also leaves for Mass. Turiddu arrives in the piazza. When Santuzza confronts him about his affair with Lola, he denies her accusations. Just then Lola passes by on her way to church. She mocks Santuzza, and Turiddu turns to follow her. Santuzza begs him to stay and implores him not to abandon her. Refusing to listen, Turiddu leaves, and Santuzza curses him. Alfio appears, late for Mass. Santuzza tells him that Lola went to church with Turiddu and reveals that she has been cheating on him. In a rage, Alfio swears to get even and rushes off, leaving behind the now conscience-stricken Santuzza.

Returning from the church the villagers gather at Mamma Lucia’s tavern. Turiddu leads them in a drinking song, but the atmosphere becomes tense when Alfio appears. He refuses Turiddu’s offer of wine and instead challenges him to a knife fight. Turiddu admits his guilt but is determined to go through with the fight, for Santuzza’s sake as well as for his honor. The two men agree to meet outside the village. Alone with his mother, Turiddu begs her to take care of Santuzza if he doesn’t come back, then runs off to the fight. As Mamma Lucia waits anxiously, shouts are heard in the distance. A woman runs in screaming that Turiddu has been killed.

Courtesy of The Metropolitan Opera

PAGLIACCI

The same Sicilian village, 1931. PROLOGUE

Tonio the clown announces that what the audience is about to see is a true story and that actors have the same joys and sorrows as other people.

ACT I

The same Sicilian village, 1931. A small theatrical company has just arrived and Canio, the head of the troupe, advertises the night’s performance to the gathered crowd. One of the villagers suggests that Tonio is secretly courting Canio’s young wife, Nedda. Canio warns them all that he will not tolerate any flirting offstage—life and theater are not the same. As the crowd disperses, Nedda is left alone, disturbed by her husband’s jealousy. She looks up to the sky, envying the birds their freedom. Tonio appears and tries to force himself on Nedda, but she beats him back, and he retreats, swearing revenge. In fact, Nedda does have a lover—Silvio, a young peasant, who suddenly appears. The two reaffirm their love, and Silvio persuades Nedda to run away with him that night. Tonio, who has returned and overheard the end of their conversation, alerts Canio, but Silvio manages to slip away unrecognized. Canio violently threatens Nedda, but she refuses to reveal her lover’s name. Beppe, another member of the troupe, restrains Canio, and Tonio advises him to wait until the evening’s performance to catch the culprit. Alone, Canio gives in to his despair—he must play the clown even though his heart is breaking.

ACT II

That evening, the villagers assemble to watch the performance, Silvio among them. Beppe plays Harlequin, who serenades Columbine, played by Nedda. He dismisses her buffoonish servant Taddeo, played by Tonio, and over dinner the two sweethearts plot to poison Columbine’s husband Pagliaccio, played by Canio. When Pagliaccio unexpectedly appears, Harlequin slips away. Taddeo maliciously assures Pagliaccio of his wife’s innocence, which ignites Canio’s jealousy. Forgetting his role and the play, he demands that Nedda tell him the name of her lover. She tries to continue with the performance, the audience enthralled by its realism, until Canio snaps. In a fit of rage he stabs Nedda and then Silvio, who rushes to her aid. Turning to the horrified crowd, Tonio announces that the comedy is over.

Courtesy of The Metropolitan Opera

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

Chiafei Lin

Dorris Dai Janssen

Filip Lazovski +

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

Kayla Burggraf

OBOES

Kristina Fulton, Principal, Shirley Bush Helzberg Chair

Alison Chung, Associate Principal

Matthew Lengas

ENGLISH HORN

Matthew Lengas

CLARINETS

Raymond Santos, Principal, Bill and Peggy Lyons Chair

Silvio Guitian, Associate Principal

John Klinghammer

E-FLAT CLARINET

Silvio Guitian

BASS CLARINET

John Klinghammer

BASSOONS

Ann Bilderback, Principal, Barton P. and Mary D. Cohen Chair

Thomas DeWitt, Associate Principal

Maxwell Pipinich

CONTRABASSOON

Thomas DeWitt

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

Jahleel Smith +

BASS TROMBONE

Jahleel Smith +

TUBA

Joe LeFevre, Principal

Frank Byrne Chair

TIMPANI

Timothy Jepson, Principal, Michael andSusan Newburger Chair

PERCUSSION

David Yoon, Acting principal

Justin Ochoa +,Acting Associate Principal

HARP

Katie Ventura +, Acting Principal

LIBRARIANS

Elena Lence Talley, Principal

Fabrice Curtis

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

ARTISTS: CAVALLERIA RUSTICANA

In order of vocal appearance

ADAM SMITH

TURIDDU (Tenor)

Recent

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Upcoming

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Cavaradossi, Tosca, Staatsoper Hamburg

Pinkerton, Madama Butterfly, San Diego Opera

SAMANTHA HANKEY

SANTUZZA (Mezzo-Soprano)

Recent

Hansel, Hansel and Gretel, Lyric Opera of Chicago

Octavian, Der Rosenkavalier, The Metropolitan Opera Mélisande, Pelléas et Mélisande, Santa Fe Opera

Upcoming

Dorabella, Così fan tutte, Opernhaus Zürich

Stéphano, Roméo et Juliette, The Metropolitan Opera

Dorabella, Così fan tutte, Royal Opera House

JILL GROVE MAMMA LUCIA (Contralto)

Recent

Ježibaba, Rusalka, Portland Opera

Witch, Hansel and Gretel, Lyric Opera of Chicago

Madame Armfeldt, A Little Night Music, Arizona Opera

Upcoming

Gertrude, Roméo et Juliette, Washington National Opera

Klytaemnestra, Elektra, Dallas Opera

Fricka, Das Rheingold, Calgary Opera

GEVORG HAKOBYAN ALFIO (Baritone)

Recent

Amonasro, Aida, Teatro Real

Scarpia, Tosca, De Nationale Opera

Tomsky, Pique Dame, Gran Teatre del Liceu

Upcoming

Michele, Il Tabarro, Fondazione Arena di Verona

Scarpia, Tosca, Deutsche Oper Berlin

Sharpless (Cover), Madama Butterfly, The Metropolitan Opera

CHRISTINE BODDICKER LOLA (Mezzo-Soprano)

Recent

Nerone, L’incoronazione di Poppea, Miami Music Festival

Mercédès, Carmen, Brevard Music Festival

Sesto, Giulio Cesare, Moores Opera Center

Upcoming

Sister Berthe/Chant Leader, The Sound of Music, Lyric Opera of Kansas City

Stéphano, Roméo et Juliette, Lyric Opera of Kansas City

ARTISTS: PAGLIACCI

In order of vocal appearance

GEVORG HAKOBYAN TONIO (Baritone)

Recent

Amonasro, Aida, Teatro Real Scarpia, Tosca, De Nationale Opera

Tomsky, Pique Dame, Gran Teatre del Liceu

Upcoming

Michele, Il Tabarro, Fondazione Arena di Verona Scarpia, Tosca, Deutsche Oper Berlin Sharpless (Cover), Madama Butterfly, The Metropolitan Opera

DIEGO TORRE

CANIO (Tenor)

Recent

Pinkerton, Madama Butterfly, Opera Australia

Radamès, Aida, Opera Australia

Tenor Soloist, Verdi’s Requiem, Sydney Philharmonia Choirs

Upcoming

Radamès, Aida, Opera Australia

BENJAMIN RUIZ BEPPE (Tenor)

Recent John Styx, Orpheus in the Underworld, Manhattan School of Music

L’Italien, Angeliqué, Manhattan School of Music

Upcoming

Tybalt, Roméo et Juliette, Lyric Opera of Kansas City Ollie, Sketchbook for Ollie, Lyric Opera of Kansas City

GABRIELLA REYES

NEDDA (Soprano)

Recent Margarita Xirgu, Ainadamar, Detroit Opera

Mimì, La bohème, Washington National Opera

Upcoming

Rosalba, Florencia en el Amazonas, The Metropolitan Opera Marzelline, Fidelio, LA Phil

LUKE SUTLIFF SILVIO (Baritone)

Recent Pelléas (cover), Pelléas et Mélisande, Santa Fe Opera Orfeo (cover), Orfeo, Santa Fe Opera

Sciarrone, Tosca, Houston Grand Opera

Upcoming

Figaro, The Barber of Seville, North Carolina Opera Demetrius, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, The Atlanta Opera Figaro, The Barber of Seville, Seattle Opera

CREATIVE TEAM

ROBERTO KALB CONDUCTOR

Recent

Conductor, El último sueño de Frida y Diego, San Francisco Opera Conductor, Rising Stars in Concert, Lyric Opera of Chicago

Conductor, Carmen, Lyric Opera of Kansas City

Upcoming

Conductor, Rigoletto, Atlanta Opera

Conductor, The Barber of Seville, Arizona Opera Conductor, The Cunning LittleVixen, Detroit Opera

SHAWNA LUCEY DIRECTOR

Recent Director, Roméo et Juliette, Opera San José Director, La traviata, San Francisco Opera

Upcoming Director, La traviata, LA Opera

GREGORY LUIS BOYLE ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR

Recent

Assistant Director, Das Rheingold, The Dallas Opera Assistant Director, Das Rheingold, The Atlanta Opera Assistant Director, Lucia di Lammermoor, Cincinnati Opera

Upcoming Director, Don Giovanni, Inland Northwest Opera Director, La bohème, The Atlanta Opera Assistant Director, Roméo et Juliette, The Dallas Opera

STEVEN C. KEMP SET DESIGNER

Recent

Set Designer, Roméo et Juliette, Opera San José

Set Designer, Così fan Tutte, Opera Theatre of St. Louis

Set Designer, Ernani, Sarasota Opera

Upcoming

Set Designer, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, The Atlanta Opera

Set Designer, An American Apollo, Des Moines Metro Opera

Set Designer, The Flying Dutchman, Pittsburgh Opera

EDWARD KOTANEN COSTUME DESIGNER

Recent

Costume Designer, Cavalleria rusticana, Sarasota Opera

Costume Designer, Pagliacci, San Diego Opera

CREATIVE TEAM

MICHAEL JAMES CLARK

LIGHTING DESIGNER

Recent

Lighting Designer, La traviata, San Francisco Opera

Lighting Designer, The Marriage of Figaro, Houston Grand Opera

Lighting Designer, Tosca, Houston Grand Opera

Upcoming

Lighting Designer, Falstaff, Houston Grand Opera

Lighting Designer, The Snowy Day, Portland Opera

Lighting Designer, La traviata, LA Opera

DAVID ZIMMERMAN WIG AND MAKEUP DESIGNER

Recent

Wig and Makeup Designer, Orfeo, Santa Fe Opera

Upcoming

Wig and Makeup Designer, Tosca, The Dallas Opera

Wig and Makeup Designer, The Diving Bell and the Butterfly, The Dallas Opera

Wig and Makeup Designer, Elektra, The Dallas Opera

MARTIN ENGLISH FIGHT CHOREOGRAPHER

Recent

Fight Choreographer, Carmen, Lyric Opera of Kansas City

Fight Choreographer, Tosca, Lyric Opera of Kansas City

Fight Choreographer, Romeo and Juliet, Heart of America

Shakespeare Festival

PIOTR WIŚNIEWSKI

CHORUS MASTER & ASSISTANT CONDUCTOR

Recent

Chorus Master and Assistant Conductor, Sondheim on Sondheim, The Shining, La traviata, Carmen, Lyric Opera of Kansas City

Upcoming

Chorus Master and Assistant Conductor, The Sound of Music, Roméo et Juliette, Journey toValhalla, 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 July 1, 2022—July 1, 2023.

*Includes contributions to Lyric Opera Ball +Includes giving to the Special Gifts Campaign

RICHARD J. STERN SOCIETY

($50,000+)

Drs. Ivan & Karla Batlle*+

Ken & Marilyn Hager*+

Joan Horan*

Ingram Family Foundation*

Walter & Gayle Richardson

John & Marny Sherman+

Mr. J. Michael Sigler*+

Mrs. Carol Tinsman+

MAESTRO'S CIRCLE

($25,000 - $49,999)

The G. Kenneth and Ann Baum Philanthropic Fund

Matt & Kate Beem+

Mr. & Mrs. A. Joseph Brandmeyer

Virginia & Charles Clark

Dr. Melinda Estes & Dr. Harold Morris+

Mrs. H.D. Hale+

Mr. Edward P. Milbank*

Mr. & Mrs. T.E. McCullough+

Paul & Elizabeth Uhlmann+

BEL CANTO

($10,000 - $24,999)

Mrs. Raymond Backstrom

Mark T. Benedict & Dr. Kim Mongeau+

Thomas & Mary Beth Butch+

Ann Dickinson

Anthony & Meredith Durone*+

Richard & Lauren English+

Craig & Dawn Evans*+

Michael D. Fields+

Joyce G. Holland*

Robert & Ann Regnier+

Steve & Linda Taylor*+

Mr. Michael Waterford

IMPRESARIO

($5,000 - $9,999)

Scott & Joyce Blakesley*

Mr. & Mrs. Richard Bruening*

Nan Chapman*

Blake & Melissa Cooper*

Mrs. Una Creditor*+

Ann and Gary Dickinson Family Charitable Foundation*

Randy & Edie Downing*

Mr. & Mrs. Lafayette J. Ford III+

Marilyn A.W. and Norman E. Gaar, Esq.*

Donald J. Hall*

Yong Y. Han, M.D.

Jill Ingram Reynolds*

Niles & Lindsay Jager*

Dr. Robert E. & Dr. Rebecca Johnson

Dana Koehn*

Tom & Kathy Nanney

Jeff & Tonya Poe+

Andrew & Brittany Robb

Mr. & Mrs. Charles Schellhorn*

Juliette Singer & Ian Spinks*

Jug & Rachel Stanovcic

H. Wayne & Melanie Thompson

Ms. Connie Walker*

Lynne & Carl Weilert*

LYRIC OPERA ANGEL

($2,500 - $4,999)

Craig Armstrong

Andrew & Peggy Beal*

Gary & Suzy Bennett

Bruce & Cathy Cavitt

Dr. Robert L. Claassen

Phyllis Cohen

Andrew & Victoria Flower

Trudy & Jack Gabriel*

Dr. & Mrs. James K. Gentry*

Kurt & Linnell Gretzinger*

Richard Gutknecht

Mr. & Mrs. John Hale

Barnett & Shirley Bush Helzberg*

Caleb & Julia Jackson

Mary Lou James & James Taylor

Jerry Katlin & Dan DeLeon*

Judy Kirk

Michael Klein

Mr. & Mrs. William Kort*

Mary Leonida*

Sherril A. Mulhern

George & Suzy Pagels

Dr. Ronald & Donna Patton*

Don & Pamela Raffurty

Ms. Lucinda Rice-Petrie*

Michelle & Chuck Ritter

Deborah Sandler Kemper & Crosby Kemper

Dennis & Palle Rilinger

Gigi & Gary Rose*

Stephen & Dolores Schroff

Linda Singer*

Joseph & Carol Suhor*

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)

Andy & Kathy Anderson*

Robynn Andracsek

Sharon Barry*

Robert & Pamela Bruce*

Jeffrey & Diane Buczkowski

Gerard & Judy Bukowski

James & Diana Cusser*

Jo Anne & Bill Dondlinger*

Rev. & Mrs. William J. Fasel*

Ellen Feldhausen

Ellen & John Goheen

Bruce & Kathy Gordon

Sue Camberlain Klein

Julia & Greg Malter*

Graham & Helen Marcott

Lee & Carl McCaffree

Ms. Mira Mdivani*

Patricia E. Cleary Miller, PhD

Jeannie Parelman

Debra & Allen Parmet

Ms. Anne M. Petrie

Wesley Sandness*

Clarence Simmons

Rebekah Snyder Bonde*

Charlene Thompson

Megan Toal

Amanda Toomey

Howard & Irene Weiner

VIRTUOUSO

($1,000 - $1,499)

Anonymous

Donna Bennett

Joan and Bert Berkley Blue Heron Foundation

Harvey S. Bodker

Peter & Lynne Brown*

Richard & Nicole Browne*

Kenneth & Norma Buchwach*

Arden & Mary Ann Carr

Ms. Joyce Castle

Drs. Richard & Donna Childs

Vince & Julie Clark*

Mr. and Mrs. Paul Copaken*

Dr. Suzanne C. Crandall

Tim & Deanna Diebolt*

Mr. and Mrs. Terrence P. Dunn+

Melanie Elfrink

Chuck & Joni Etherington*

Darold & Melinda Frenzen*

Gregory & Catherine Fox*

George and Frances Gerritz*

Donna Gould Cohen

Mr. & Mrs. Winston Grantham

John & Bernice Hamra Foundation*

George Helmkamp

Lisa Merrill Hickok*

Robert & Cynthia Hisle*

Gary & Liddell Hobin

Paul & Amy Holewinski*

Helena & Steven Jonassen*

Steve Joss

Kansas City Ballet*

Craig Kemp

Mr. Michael C. Kirk

Mr. Wayne E. Lippman

Barbara Loots & William J. Dickinson

Amy Martin

Mr. & Mrs. Stephen Mayer

Mrs. Julie A. McClure

Andrew McDonald

Mr. & Mrs. John Middelkamp*

Donald & Linda Milligan

John & Susan Newsam*

Drs. Margaret & Barry Nickell

Edward & Chris Null

Joseph & Kelly Privitera*

Ms. Lisa Flynn Pruch*

Ms. Carmen M. Sabates*

Dr. & Mrs. Nelson R. Sabates*

Lora Smith*

Joshua & Jane Sosland

John & Angela Walker*

Clyde & Katie Wendel

George & Beverley Wilson

Sophia C. Zetmeir

COMPRIMARIO

($500 - $999)

Robert & Ruth Abbott

David Actenberg & H. Alice Jacks

Ms. Ida B. Anderson

Joe & Skylar Bellinger

Ms. Ann Bender*

John Bennett & Janet Gatz-Bennett

Dara & George Bock*

Ronald & Kathleen Bremer

Stephen & Susan Bubb*

Maria Chastain-Brand

Mr. C. L. Cocke

Mr. H. Hurst Coffman

Christopher & Emily Collins

Mrs. Julie B. Collins

James Cook

James & Ellen Copaken*

Joanne Copeland

Dr. Patricia Mary Cox

Mr. Barry D. Culbreath II

Pat & Liz Daniels

Dr. Michael De Priest & Ms. Barbara Braznell

Steven & Carolyn Faenger*

Karen Florio

Alexandra Fontana

John & Hilary Fried*

Chris & Martha Gabel

Mark & Nancy Gilman

Steven Goldfarb*

Michael & Judy Graf

Carol Grantham

Joan Hall*

Samantha Herdman

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

Mr. & Mrs. Lynd K. Mische*

JoZach Miller & Peter Bali*

Jack & Camille Moodie

Katherine E. Myers*

Barbara Nelson*

Mr. Richard E. Owens

Bill Palluca

Stephen Platt*

Vernon & Trish Podlasek*

Mr. Hal Douglas Quinn*

Gisele Roy

Mr. Ronald Sayer

Bruce & Nancy Schall*

Jon Scheinman & Anita Toby Grow

Lynn Schweig*

Mrs. Patricia Scott*

Karen Seaberg

Suzanne Shank*

Patrick & Mary Shaw

Edward M. Sien

Greg & Ann Smith

Barbara Spilker*

Deirdre Squires

Ms. Linda S. Stevens

Dr. Jessica Stone & Mr. Benjamin Stone

Ursula Terrasi & Jim Miller*

Ms. Beverly Thomas

Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Schrader

Maarten van Swaay

Dr. Charles W. & Gail E. Van Way*

Mrs. Sandra Vogel

Jeff & Alisha Walker

Bryan & Jennifer Wampler*

Brian Wieth & Michele Hamlett-Weith*

Jean Wise

CHORUS

($250 - $499)

Mr. & Mrs. Gary L. Adams

Ellen & John Aisenbrey

Mr. Simon Atkinson

Roger Bond & Victoria Hermes-Bond

Christopher & Sharon Bradford

Mr. & Mrs. Forrest Chumley

Dr. Kathleen Cita

Mr. and Mrs. Robert Clark

Ms. Ellen Cooley

Ms. Rita Cortes & Ms. Mary E. McLean

Dr. & Mrs. Steve Crouch

Doug & Terri Curran

Cathy Daicoff

Allen and Jane Davis

Dr. & Mrs. John M. Davis

Rita Davis

Thomas Dow

Carol R. Ducak

Mr. Kenneth Eiler

Ms. Stacie Eliades-Becker

Mr. Byron Fry

Richard & Winifred Gill

Charles & Barbara Gorodetzky

Ken & Rose Hagen

Dr. and Mrs. Thomas B. Hall III

Mr. and Mrs. George E. Handley

Susan & Zack Hangauer

Roger Hiatt & Patricia Haegelin-Hiatt

Dr. Stephanie A. Henry

Dr. & Mrs. Edward Higgins

Dick & Sue Himes

Mr. and Mrs. William Hirsch

Bill & Margo Humenczuk

Mrs. Kelly Johnson

Dr. and Mrs. Paul Johnson

Jon D. Kowing

Mr. Larry Kucinick

Mr. David Lacy & Dr. Mary Ellen Culver

Rodney & Margaret LaMothe

Jane Lee

Judith A. Lindquist

Mr. Matthew J. Maggi

Mrs. Nicole Marshall-Ebersole

Kevin and Kristi Martinez

P. Alan McDermott

Mr. Alvin Meyer

Kathy & Bill Migneron

Andrea Norris & Tom Beisecker

Mark & Lynne O’Connell

Dr. & Mrs. Jorge Paradelo

Kathy Peters

Ms. Maggie Presson

Michael & Usha Rafferty

Edward & Charlotte Ronan

Jim Schraeder

Charles F. & Rose M. Schwankl

Kelton W. H. Smith

Egon Stammler

Brian & Dian Steele

Christopher L. Sweeney

James H. Taylor

Mr. Robert D. Trapp

Daniel L. Turner & Carol Dziadik Turner

Robert Wilshire & Anne McDonald

Collin M. Woroniak

Mrs. Barbara Weary

Mr. and Mrs. Michael J. Yarnevich

Julian & Tasha Zugazagoitia

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 July 1, 2022—July 1, 2023.

*Includes contributions to Lyric Opera Ball +Includes giving to the Special Gifts Campaign

OPERA PRESENTING SPONSORS:

LYRIC OPERA UNDERWRITERS

($100,000+)

Hall Family Foundation

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

Missouri Arts Council

Theater League

MAESTRO’S CIRCLE

($25,000 - $49,999)

Arvin Gottlieb Charitable Foundation, UMB Bank, n.a., Trustee

E. Kemper Carter & Ann Curry Community Memorial Trust, UMB Bank, n.a., Trustee

Francis Family Foundation

Hallmark Corporate Foundation

J.B. Reynolds Foundation*

John W. and Effie E. Speas Memorial Trust

Lyric Opera of Kansas City - William Randolph Hearst Endowed Fund

National Endowment for the Arts

Pemberton Family Charitable Foundation

William T. Kemper FoundationCommerce Bank Trust

BEL CANTO ($10,000 - $24,999)

Cyr Family Charitable Remainder Trust

EPR Properties+

H & R Block Foundation

Merriman Foundation*

Neighborhood Tourist Development Fund

Saint Luke’s Health System

The Sosland Foundation

Jack F. & Glenna Y. Wylie Charitable Foundation - Midwest Trust*

Estate of Dr. Sonya Cornell Yarmat

IMPRESARIO

($5,000 - $9,999)

Anonymous*

Craig Associates

Elsberry Family Foundation*

Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation*

Halls Kansas City*

Lyric Opera of Kansas City FoundationPolsky Fund

Mdivani Corporate Immigration Law Firm

Thomas and Sally Wood Family Foundation

CORPORATE & COMMUNITY

COUNCIL ($2,500 - $4,999)

Commerce Bank, n.a.*

DeBruce Foundation*

JE Dunn Construction Company*

High Touch Inc*

Husch Blackwell LLP*

R.A. Long Foundation

The Mader Foundation

McCownGordon Construction*

Merrill Charitable Foundation, Inc.

RubinBrown LLP*

Strauss Peyton Photography*

INSITUTIONAL GIVING CONT.

CORPORATE & COMMUNITY

SPONSORS ($250 - $2,499)

Baird Foundation, Inc.

Butterfly Fine Jewelry & Accessories*

Vernon & Trish Podlasek, Cuorebella

The Independent*

Kansas City Ballet*

Kitchens by Klewono*

JoAnn Meierhoff Charitable Foundation

Orpheus KC

RC Williams Company*

Sanofi-Aventis*

Louis and Frances Swinken Supporting Foundation

The Martha Lee Cain Tranby Music

Enrichment Fund

The Trudy Foundation

TruPay

Young Women on the MoveTruPay

Vernon & Trish Podlasek, Cuorebella*

THE SHINING RECORDING

Lyric Opera is proud to have created the first-ever recording of Paul Moravec and Mark Cambpell’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

Kemper Family Foundation

Richard J. Stern Foundation for the Arts

Julia & Greg Malter

Ms. Lisa Merrill Hickok

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

In Memory of Stan Brand

Jeffrey Kahane

In Memory of Marge Hubbard

Lyric Opera Guild

In Memory of David Ice

Diana Ice

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 & Julia Kirk

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*

Robert M. Suhre Foundation

Steve & Linda Taylor

Thomas & Loren Whittaker

Annie Zinn*

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

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 art challenges the technology, and the technology inspires the art."

- John Lasseter

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.

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.”

– THE KANSAS CITY STAR

GET A TWO OR THREE-SHOW SUBSCRIPTION

Curate your opera experience with flexible subscription packages. Buy a 3-pack subscription to get 15% off the single ticket price, or save 10% with a 2-pack subscription. Create your own subscription with the QR code below.

LYRIC OPERA STAFF

EXECUTIVE

Deborah Sandler Kemper, General Director and CEO

Melissa Roberts, Executive Assistant & Board Liaison

FINANCE & ADMINISTRATION

Jeffrey Walker, Chief Financial Officer

Danny Boteler, Controller

Amy Tungol, HR & Payroll Specialist

Michal McIntyre, Staff Accountant

ARTISTIC ADMINISTRATION

Brad Trexell, Director of Artistic Administration

Piotr Wiśniewski, Head of Music Staff & Chorus Master

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, Assistant Technical Director

DEVELOPMENT

Edward Sien, Chief Development Officer

Michael Breeden, Senior Manager of Individual Giving & Partnerships

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: Madeline Cain, Catherine Cone, Aimee McCormack, Josephine Meyers, Jonathon Moldovan, Dennis Pearson, Brianna Volkmann

LEGAL COUNSEL

SKETCHBOOK FOR OLLIE

Elementary School Touring Opera: January 29-February 14, 2024

by Rachel J. Peters

Adapted from the story Life Is a Jar of Paint by Bill Folman

Lyric Opera of Kansas City is proud to offer touring performances of Sketchbook for Ollie to elementary schools and community spaces across the Kansas City area. Newly commissioned by Lyric Opera, Sketchbook for Ollie is aligned to music curricular standards and created specifically for students in grades 3–5.

Eight-year-old Ollie is struggling after the death of his grandmother and has lots of questions. The only answer that satisfies him comes from his Aunt Leeza, a composer, who shows him that life is like her music sketchbook. Using music as a tool to process his grief, Ollie creates his own song involving the whole family and audience.

Visit kcopera.org/sketchbook-for-ollie by scanning the QR code below to learn more and register. Schedule your visit today!

Sketchbook for Ollie photo by Andrew Schwartz

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We are more than the best hospital in Kansas and in Kansas City. We are passionate providers who truly care. Experience unmatched medicine from a compassionate care team. Schedule an appointment at 913-588-1227 or visit KansasHealthSystem.com/CompassionateCare.