Opportunities

The Patrick G. and Shirley W. Ryan Opera Center is calling for applications from singers who are interested in joining its 2025/26 Ensemble. Established in 1974 as the professional artist-development program for Lyric Opera of Chicago, the Ryan Opera Center has been recognized as one of the premier programs of its kind in the world. That standing is maintained by providing the finest up-and-coming artists with unparalleled training and experience, including:
Participation in Lyric Opera of Chicago’s mainstage season and leading roles in Ryan Opera Center performances
Recital series broadcast on 98.7WFMT
Master classes and private coachings with Lyric Opera of Chicago Music Director Enrique Mazzola and other celebrated artists
Voice lessons, acting, movement, and audition classes with distinguished instructors
Intensive language instruction
Repertoire coaching from acclaimed resident staff
Performance opportunities throughout the Chicago area
Audition opportunities for internationally distinguished casting directors, conductors, and artist managers
Stipend plus benefits
The Patrick G. and Shirley W. Ryan Opera Center is an equal opportunity employer/program. The Ryan Opera Center encourages qualified artists from historically underrepresented groups, including but not limited to those who identify as Black, Indigenous, or a Person of Color, to apply for its Ensemble.

Finalists’ airfares are generously provided by American Airlines as the Official Airline of the Ryan Opera Center National Auditions.

The Patrick G. and Shirley W. Ryan Opera Center is supported in part by a grant from the National Endowment for the Arts and acknowledges support from the Illinois Arts Council Agency.