In this interview with John Mangum, the General Director, President & CEO of Lyric Opera of Chicago, we learn that in addition to the fabulous history of operas presented at the Lyric, there is so much more for non-opera lovers and families to enjoy.

This upcoming season will kick off with an Opening Concert Gala on October 10th starring Broadway stars Brian Stokes Mitchell and Laura Benanti for a one night only performance.

Then a series of special classic movies take the screen but accompanied by the Lyric Opera Orchestra which provides the soundtrack which has been removed from the film. It creates an amazing sensory experience….and the movies this season will be Disney’s Coco (Oct 16 & 18) and Mary Poppins (April 10 & 11, 2026). And John discusses a very special engagement with Chicago’s Very Own Billy Corgan (of Smashing Pumpkins fame) who has created an amazing new piece called “A Night of Mellon Collie and Infinite Sadness.” This amazing production airs only Nov 21st – 30th) and honestly, tickets are moving fast.

On this WGNRadio.com Podcast release, the discussion with John goes beyond the WGN+ stream looking at the food options available pre-theater in the classic Lyric building as well as a chat about some of the classic operas that are being staged in this upcoming season. Most important John talks about the experience of opera is not what it was decades ago….it’s an art form everyone should come and enjoy!

Tickets for all the Lyric Opera productions can be found at: www.LyricOpera.org