Backstage tour of Lyric Opera

Have you ever wanted the chance to go behind the curtain at the opera? As a tour leader, that’s exactly what I had the chance to do on Sunday during the Lyric Opera’s Backstage Tour fundraising event.

I served as a guide for guests and took them to ten different stops on the tour, and at each stop, a Lyric expert told us interesting facts about what goes into producing a grand, large-scale opera.

Guests snapped photos as we went along, capturing all of the magic behind the scenes. Stops included the wig room, the make-up room, the wardrobe room where the Lyric’s gorgeous costumes are made by hand, and the rehearsal room, where we saw some of the golden Egyptian boats from the current production of Aida sitting off to the side.

One of the most thrilling moments, however, was when we climbed down into the orchestra pit and sat in the actual musicians’ chairs ― what a spectacular view!

Finally, we had an opportunity to walk onto the stage itself, which was still set up for the current production of Show Boat with an elaborate Mississippi river boat right in the middle of the stage. Standing next to the scenery made me feel as if I were actually in the show.

About 400 people took part in the regular tour of the Lyric, and about 70 people joined the premium tour, which included an elegant gourmet luncheon with the Lyric's Dramaturg, Roger Pines, as well as the opportunity to have their photo taken on the main stage and a parting gift from Lyric Opera's Board of Directors. All of the proceeds benefited the Lyric’s Guild Board.

I was so pleased to be a part of this event that gave guests an insider’s look at what goes into producing one of the Lyric’s masterpieces. Lyric Opera Backstage Tours take place only twice a year. Don’t miss this magical opportunity to see it for yourself on Sunday, March 11!