The Lyric Opera of Chicago was founded in Chicago, Illinois, in 1954 by Carol Fox, Nicola Rescigno, and Lawrence Kelly, with its first season featuring Maria Callasâs American debut in Norma. The company established its home in the Civic Opera House, acquiring the venue in 1993 and renaming the auditorium the Ardis Krainik Theatre in 1996. Over the decades, the company premiered contemporary works such as Bel Canto by Jimmy López. Notable collaborations included engagements of Luciano Pavarotti, Plácido Domingo, and Maria Callas, while conductors such as Sir Andrew Davis and Enrique Mazzola led the orchestra. The organization also operates the Patrick G. and Shirley W. Ryan Opera Center, a premier training program for emerging singers.
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