Lyric Opera of Chicago has announced a record-breaking, unrestricted gift of $25 million from Vice Chair of its Board of Directors, Penelope Steiner, making this
one of the largest individual contributions in the company’s history.
Described as “a profound affirmation” of Lyric’s mission, the donation arrives at a transformative time, as General Director, President and CEO John Mangum begins his inaugural season. “Penelope’s inspiring generosity empowers us to expand our artistic vision, deepen our service to our community, expose more new audiences to opera, and create innovative productions that promote the vibrancy of our art form,” said Mangum.
Steiner’s gift will support a bold new artistic direction, including dynamic stagings of operatic classics and a headline-making collaboration with Billy Corgan to mark 30 years of alt-rock classic Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness.
“Opera, more than any art form, embraces all artistic disciplines, spreading its light through the universe and touching all with its iconic aura,” said Steiner. “Lyric’s magic will be a motivating factor for generations to come; how privileged I have been to have recognised its divination and contribute to its legacy.”
In honour of the donation, Lyric will rename its main floor seating “The Robert and Penelope Steiner Parquet.” Steiner will also receive Lyric’s prestigious Carol Fox Award this May.
