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Lyric Opera of Chicago
20 N Upper Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60606, United States
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Ja
Review №1

I cant wait to come back as a ghost just to haunt this place! The ghosts are the choir.

Ca
Review №2

Lovely venue. Great acoustics. Perfect location... easy to find. Plenty of concessions. Fun extras like the camera and red carpet backdrop!

Sa
Review №3

Went on a “Back Stage Tour” of the Lyric Opera and it was very interesting! The tour guide was great and shared history of the Lyric and the building as we viewed the various rooms, including costumes, dressing and makeup rooms, props, orchestra pit and behind stage. I definitely recommend this tour. Also received a flyer with a discount code for tickets!

El
Review №4

Very impressive and historical landmark to visit.The whole event is pretty well organized - lines may seem long for the show and coat checking, but they are handled professionally and quickly.Staff is also very nice and polite.Word of advice - students can get 20$ tickets for really good sits (picture is the view from my sit which I got as a student).

Ja
Review №5

First live opera experience, The Barber of Seville was enjoyable, funny, long. As with most theater experiences if someone taller than you sits directly in front of your seat it becomes a tragedy. Recommend visiting at least once. Was great to be able to attend with a student discount.

Ha
Review №6

One of the elite opera houses in the world. Top notch productions and talent. A great experience for very reasonable prices. A true gem.

Am
Review №7

This was my second time here. Beautiful building. Performance was great. Only complaint is building was very hot and dry in the middle of winter.

Da
Review №8

Love the Lyric Opera House, so fortunate to have in Chicago. The building is absolutely stunning. Quality productions every season. Eurydice was an amazing opener. Joffrey Ballet is a very nice addition to Lyric Opera. Watching this beautiful production was surreal. A real power trio; beautifully choreographed dance moves, spectacular singing and an exquisite orchestra. Loved it so much.

El
Review №9

Gorgeous halls and rooms w fantastic opera singers and orchestra. Chicagos iconic gem.

Je
Review №10

Its tragic when an organization insists on accelerating the death of the artistic and theatrical medium that it makes its very purpose, but the relentless pushing of yellowface on their public-facing CTA ads demonstrates that the Lyric Opera is devoted to alienating nonwhite audiences. Please join me in wishing the Lyric all the best in its twilight years! RIP

je
Review №11

I loved love this place. It’s almost magical as you walk in. I suggest you dress up and get the whole experience. When you first arrive try to be an hour early so you can order intermission food ahead of time. We ordered ahead at the Bistro. We chose desert and champagne for our first intermission. The desert I had is pictured it was the Opera cake. The cake was very decadent. I loved it. The pink champagne I ordered was so good and only $11 a glass. I suggest you try both.We also took our time to walk around and visit several floors since there are beautiful gowns throughout. Vera Wang is one of the designers.They also have several stations between acts where you can get a snack or drink and not have to wait in long lines. They are very prompt to start and give you warning bells.Overall Ariodante the Opera we saw was good and kept our attention. It definitely is a Romantic comedy and a nice change to what I normally watch. One of the main characters was sick and had a sub but it did not matter the sub was great. I don’t want to get into too much detail and give things away.Overall, I will be coming back to this Opera house and will possibly try a box seat out next. The seats we had were right up front 3rd row on the side. It would have been nice to be in the middle more but honestly this was a good seat for me.

Ch
Review №12

This is a must for anyone who loves music. If you havent seen an opera, come give one of the easier ones a try. I always feel transported by the music, singing, story, costumes and staging. Im often surprised to realize at the end that Im sitting in my seat in Chicago; I was convinced I was somewhere else in time and space.

Ta
Review №13

Very beautiful interior. The seating, however, is not designed in the most optimal way. The seats in the main floor section are placed right behind each other, which limits the visibility to the stage. The balconies are better in that aspect, but farther from the stage. Otherwise, great experience there.

Er
Review №14

World class opera. $20 student ticket days for students, so I can afford to see every show. Clever stage directions and fantastic prop designs keep old classics as impactful and absorbing as when they were first written.

Tr
Review №15

The place is nice and clean. They sell drinks in multiple places. We sat in the mid back.... I couldnt hear everything. Its best to use valet parking its cheaper and you dont have to walk. I think I paid 20 dollars not including the tip.

Ad
Review №16

Breathtaking performance. I havent been in years, so it was extra special. There are many great opera houses, but Lyric will always be my favorite.

Ze
Review №17

Ive attended numerous performances at this venue. It has touch of luxury and total class in service and performances. Special effects are mesmerizing.Comfort depends on where youre seated. Leg room in the upper balconies is kind of cramped, but theres plenty on the main floor.

Ev
Review №18

Went to see La Boheme and the performance and production were truly world class. The building itself is incredible inside too!

Na
Review №19

Ive always LOVED this venue. The only thing that I would change, is expanding the womens washrooms. Theres always a 50+ person line at intermission, while the men dont have a line at ALL!!! P.s. IF youre a wine/ drink lover, I just found out that you can PRE-ORDER intermission drinks, BEFORE the show starts!!! Also, if you ever get a chance to do a back stage tour, DO IT!!! Its rather amazing!

Ci
Review №20

This one is a treasure of Chicago city, it incredibly nice venue. I come here a lot of times and every time it takes my breath away , spectacular scene setting and opera singers have super voices that come with notes from their hearts. Staff is so professional and nice, they greeting you with famous Chicago warm smile. I love to dress up and come with my close friend and enjoy their performance. Again you have to visit that one for sure especially if you visiting our area you would be so happy, it gives you best memories. Thank you the staff and actors

To
Review №21

Great venue. Comfortable seats. Way overpriced refreshments. The sound system needs some work. It was intrusive to the show.

Tr
Review №22

Fantastic time seeing West Side Story. The music, acting, and singing were phenomenal! Tony and Maria were remarkable!

Va
Review №23

The queen of spades. We all were horrified. Almost no decorations. They tried to destroy the soul of the opera. Glad they did not spoil misic. Lisa was great

dr
Review №24

Very nice place well designed nice Art in the basement

La
Review №25

Going to the Lyric was an amazing experience that everyone should do at least once. I saw Madam Butterfly at a Sunday matinee. To make a great day out of going to the opera, I recommend going to The Signature Room for brunch. We used spot hero to park near the restaurant and then took an Uber to the Lyric which allowed us to get out of there quickly after the show ended and avoid fighting with all of the other cars trying to leave. Before the show starts, visit The Pederson Room on the first floor of the opera house. We sat at the bar and enjoyed a bottle of wine (they have small plates too). What you dont finish will be placed back out for you during intermission at your same seats. The bartender was very entertaining and welcoming. Overall this was one of the best days Ive had in the city!

Sc
Review №26

Attended the Three Queens performance with my wife. Very enjoyable night and liked the free instant photo of us in the lobby. The sound and theatre was fantastic. We would return again for another performance.

Gi
Review №27

It is very beautiful and the opera of La Traviata was amazing!!

Ma
Review №28

One of the best Opera houses I have visited. The production of every Opera I have seen here always leaves me gasping in awe. The building itself is fascinating, well worth a look at the outside, especially from the other side of the river, as it resembles a chair.

Me
Review №29

Coming to the Lyric and enjoying its gorgeous architecture and their magnificent productions is always the highlight of my visits to Chicago. It is a place very dear and close to my heart.

Ch
Review №30

Gorgeous and excellent as everything Ive seen there (barring Doctor Atomic what a flop). Will be back again.Seats maybe could use an update. Just a bit worn.

Wh
Review №31

Its the Lyric. Beautiful space/ architecture. Impeccable acoustics. Ive seen all from string quartets to hard prog/ jazz. Seats a bit old, but still more comfy than typical venue. Recommended.

Je
Review №32

Beautiful theater. Comfortable seats.

Do
Review №33

They never disappoint, always great productions. Had dinner before at the bistro.

St
Review №34

One of Chicagos most classic buildings.

sa
Review №35

Beautiful Art Deco theater. West Side Story was very well done!

Le
Review №36

This place is gorgeous and has a great stage, and the experience is spectacular. There are attendants for elevators as well as ushering and they make sure every need and question is taken care of.

Da
Review №37

The beauty of the lyric before west side story begins!

Ja
Review №38

Beautiful theatre. Great value during Chicago Theatre Week. Opera was amazing. There is hope for humanity!

An
Review №39

It was an amazing experience for all the shows I have watched. The singers are beautiful and the stage is perfect. I even met the singers after their performance when they were outside. I love Opera after watching the performances they provide.

Ia
Review №40

Don Giovanni was excellent!!! The commandatore scene gives me goosebumps, Ill remember it for quite a while. Madama Butterfly was also dramatic

Ve
Review №41

This is how you run a service entertainment business. If you are a fan of opera, you can do no better than Lyric. I know there are so many critics out there but I am referring to their customer service. There are only two approaches, How can we help you? What would you like?Need to change? no problem! Want to try another seat for a different experience? no problem!. Got sick and dont want to infect a few hundred patrons? no problem! Need help figuring out what you want to see? no problem! Pederson Room can be hit or miss, but customer service is excellent. Yes, it is expensive but still cheaper than NYC.

Jo
Review №42

The ultimate experience! One of the best Opera houses in the country! Madama Butterfly is always superb!

Ro
Review №43

Saw West Side Story with my daughter. 2nd balcony picture of our view.

Iv
Review №44

Beautiful venue right by the river. I attended the Transformers movie premiere, and the orchestra as well as all 3 balconies were packed. The staff is very easy going and helpful!

Al
Review №45

Opera at its best. Singing is superb, costumes and sets excellent. If you like opera you cant miss the Lyric.

Ch
Review №46

Such an amazing show and venue. The stunt for the climax was amazing! A huge 25 foot banquet table tipped up into the air, the actor slid down the table. Then the actor and table were swallowed into the floor, like they were never there!

Jo
Review №47

Great experience. Impressive performers. Lovely staff. Beautiful architecture!

ma
Review №48

The singing and dancing by these actors were as good as the movie Westside story.

Pe
Review №49

Saw Light in the Piazza. A fantastic show with beautiful costumes, amazing music direction, and stupendous performances. Highly recommended.

Ki
Review №50

Great productions, professional theater and opera. Beautiful place.

Mi
Review №51

As we came in the staff was very helpful to let us know where our seats were. The refreshments were also there to enjoy and I got Makers Mark whiskey and wine. Also chocolates and cups. The seats were on the 4th floor on this visit and I think the 3rd floor is probably the best seat for me since I get to watch from above and its not too far. The seats are vintage as well as the theater but it is a very nice place. Will keep coming back.

Ra
Review №52

This was the best Opera performnce I have seen in 33 years! The lyric version of Tsykovskys version of Pushkins Opera The Three Queens! Fabulous! See it!!

Ro
Review №53

Susanne McKinney is looking for her Son Johnathan Taylor Biller please helpThank you

mi
Review №54

That was exciting. The opera house is beautiful and Don Giovanni was spectacular. Not for the weak of wallet though.. A special event for sure.

Gi
Review №55

Absolutely love the lyrics its not only beautiful but the performances are amazing.

Ka
Review №56

First time attending and fell in love with the place, really enjoyed Don Giovanni on opening night

Xi
Review №57

An afternoon at lyric opera. Full house for Rossinis barber of sivelle

Ew
Review №58

Beautiful music today, missing thrill of Mozart and Handel, though.

Ra
Review №59

Nice, historic venue with solid views to the stage from the upper balcony. I was just there for an Alabama Shakes show and was impressed by the layout of tbe place and how personal lt feels

Ma
Review №60

The New Years Eve event The Roaring Twenties my son is a DJ and he entertain music for all the New Year partyers it was very glamorous and had a flavor from the past

bo
Review №61

A most beautiful theater. Contemporized productions are disappointing recently.

Ad
Review №62

Fantastic Theatre, great acoustics. We were in the upper level so it wasnt the best view, but we could see pretty well and could hear everything. We saw West Side Story as a Mothers and Fathers day gift to my parents. Is was pretty great!

Li
Review №63

We enjoyed the opera family day event. Children enjoyed all crafts. Face paintings by the professionals who do opera actors makeup are amazing. 20 mins a session for each group demonstration is great. The pieces demoed in the performance are so fun and interesting for the introduction and get the feeling how operas are. It is well though and organized.

ro
Review №64

One of the reasons that Chicago is the best place to live. While I was very happy to go to the opera in Portland, Oregon, Chicago is such a whole different world. Definitely addictive.

Ke
Review №65

The atmosphere, performance is awesome

L
Review №66

What a beautiful edifice and the opera Don Giovanni was exceptional! This was my first live opera performance but it wont be my last!

Jo
Review №67

Fantastic leads, cast, and set for West Side Story.

su
Review №68

Great operas, lively restaurants on site, every area of the Lyric has something attractive to see. Service is impeccable, bathroom attendants are noteworthy of intermission times and expedite well.

Ed
Review №69

Elegant venue. Wonderful atmosphere with friendly ushers and attentive service.

Be
Review №70

Wonderful production of Queen of Spades! Loved the staging with special perspectives and loved Tomsky (Samuel Youn) and Pauline ( Elizabeth DeShong)! Awesome voices!

Ed
Review №71

I love going just to see the inside. Such amazing construction.

To
Review №72

My 1st time at the lyric opera and it was amazing! I cannot wait to go back!

Al
Review №73

Great place to enjoy Opera! Easy to find your place to be seated, even on balcony, there are great sound and view

Ni
Review №74

Great performance of Don Giovanni. I attended the opera pre talk which was really interesting, a great way to learn more about the story, music and performers. My only dislike is the lack of leg room. Im 5,11 and my knees were pressed against the seat in front of me.. ol the pain.

Gi
Review №75

Great operas, and they have student discounts too if you subscribe to NEXT. I always love the innovative works through Lyric Unlimited as well. Don’t understand Italian? No worries, they have translations projected into a screen above.Bring a pair of small binoculars, and you will be blown away by the details. Arrive here early, because they are always crowded 15 minutes before a show.

St
Review №76

The opera house is stunningly beautiful, the acoustics are wonderful and the production of West Side Story was lush in sou d, big orchestra. It had remarkable soloists, great dancing, and a clever set.It was faithful to Bernstein, Sondheim, and Robbins, but felt more contemporary.Best ticket in town!

Pe
Review №77

I subscribe, so of course this review will be positive. In fact I come down from Milwaukee eight times a year to enjoy the productions. The quality of the singing, the productions, the staging, and the stage direction is generally excellent. Not always, but almost always.Ive sat in the balcony and I have sat on the main floor and theres no comparison. If you can afford it, I strongly urge the purchase have a main floor ticket.Lyric Opera of Chicago is one of the best opera companies in the United States. I feel fortunate to live so close.

Di
Review №78

Stunning productions. Gorgeous venue. Bliss.

Fi
Review №79

It is hard to know what the bigger spectacle is at the Lyric - the many fine productions on the stage or the building itself. The auditorium is vast and exquisite in the detailed Egyptian style art work.I’ve seen several productions here and the standard of music and stage craft is always high. There is a spot down centre you can always see the singers creep towards for the big not and when it comes it sounds great in this auditorium.

Lu
Review №80

It is amazing go there 1

L.
Review №81

Where do I begin?! This was one of the most memorable experiences of my life.

Ca
Review №82

Views of stage are great no matter the seat - this is upper balcony - 4th row - left side - still had a very good view of stage

Pi
Review №83

The Barber of Seville; by far the best production Ive seen of this opera. Id add more stars to my rating, if I could.

Mi
Review №84

The Lyric Opera of Chicago has always been my favorite venue to see shows that range fromOpera favorites to Broadway musicals. Recently, I saw West Side Story on stage here and it was fantastic! The performances of the actors was beyond anything Ive ever seen in a musical. I highly recommend seeing a performance at the Lyric Opera to any tourist of Chicago or local, because it is an unforgettable experience!

Ci
Review №85

Beautiful opera house with amazing music.

Ke
Review №86

Going to the Lyric is always a good experience.A few comments on logisticsValet Parking is $30 and you may wait 15 minutes ++ to get your car after the show (unless you dash out before the curtain call). The are nearby garages as an optionTaxi line after the opera is well organized and a good optionDrinks served in the lobby pre-show; also during intermission(s). Drinks also served on 2nd floor outside the boxesCasual food available pre-show on lower levelAlso a dining room if you make a reservation. Limited menu and good quality.Really no dress code. Wear whatever youre willing to be seen wearing in public.Doors to the seats open 30 minutes prior to show time. Only important to know if youre in a box where it is open seating and first-come first-served

Au
Review №87

This opera house never seems to disappoint. Wonderfully produced productions with very talented musicians.

ch
Review №88

Loved this place and a great way to change things up!

la
Review №89

One of Chicagos finest place to visit, great date night

as
Review №90

Great interior and spacious, amazing acoustics and view of the stage no matter how far away you are. Just got finished seeing West Side Story and had an excellent time. They do have intermission and snacks and all served (just the standard stuff)

Go
Review №91

Love the art deco. The acoustics are fantastic.

Am
Review №92

Always enjoyable. Found excellent parking through park hero on opposite corner from opera house.

Er
Review №93

The classic art deco opera house in Chicago. Beautiful! In between the opera seasons they occasionally stage a production of a Broadway Musical. Todays performance of West Side Story was superb.

Lo
Review №94

Still one of the most beautiful theatres. We saw Barber of Seville. Wonderful and Hilarious production.

Da
Review №95

What a beautiful Opera House. A very fun experience. Also, it seemed very accessible to me. People dressed up, people with casual clothes. They show the translation of foreign language operas in a small box, which can help to follow the plot. And most importantly: Amazing performances on the stage!!!

Al
Review №96

It’s a truly classy and wonderful place!

Ky
Review №97

Wonderful performance of Madame Butterfly in a gorgeous opera house.

Jo
Review №98

Always a great time. What a wonderful place.

We
Review №99

Wonderful performance of The Barber of Seville! Particularly enjoyed the tenor in the role of Figaro.

Ca
Review №100

I have been regularly attending Lyric Opera of Chicago since 1966, and every time I am there is a special occasion for me.I no longer live in Chicagoland, but fly in for performances. And each time i do, i am transported back to 1966, when i saw my very first opera there at the age of 7. I was hooked for life.The opera house is a local as well as national landmark, the stage has had many great artists walk upon it, and the theatre itself is a beautiful example of Art Deco style.It should be on everyones list when they visit Chicago!

Information
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100 Comments
4.8 Rating
  • Address:20 N Upper Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60606, United States
  • Site:http://www.lyricopera.org/
  • Phone:+1 312-827-5600
Categories
  • Arts organization
  • Opera company
  • Concert hall
  • Orchestra
  • Performing arts theater
Working hours
  • Monday:9am–5pm
  • Tuesday:9am–5pm
  • Wednesday:9am–5pm
  • Thursday:9am–5pm
  • Friday:Closed
  • Saturday:Closed
  • Sunday:9am–5pm
Accessibility
  • Wheelchair-accessible entrance:Yes
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