Opera House

Lyric Opera of Chicago

Chicago, IL, United States·Est. 1954·3,563 seats

operamusical

20 North Wacker Drive, Chicago, IL 60606

The Lyric Opera of Chicago, housed in the landmark Civic Opera House on North Wacker Drive, stands as one of America's most prestigious opera companies and a cultural institution of international renown. Founded in 1954, the company has established itself through decades of artistic excellence, presenting a carefully curated season of classical masterworks and contemporary works that attract world-class singers and conductors. The venue remains a cornerstone of Chicago's performing arts landscape, celebrated for its commitment to compelling storytelling and engagement with diverse audiences.

Season

Now & Coming Soon

Don Giovanni

Don Giovanni

Don Giovanni

Don Giovanni

Don Giovanni

Omar

Don Giovanni

Omar

Full season at Lyric Opera of Chicago

The Experience

Acoustics, seating, and what to expect

Acoustics

4.5/ 5

The Civic Opera House is widely praised for premium acoustics that allow full appreciation of singers' voices and orchestral performance. A new acoustical shell installed in 2014 further enhanced sound quality for concert performances.

Best Seats

Orchestra section center rows A through F offer commanding views and superior acoustics, though at premium prices. For better value, mid-level balcony seats in rows D through H provide excellent acoustics and panoramic stage views. Avoid the back of the main floor where overhead balconies can obstruct sightlines.

Dress Code

Varies by Event

Visitor Guide

Tickets, pricing, and getting there

Ticket Prices

$47—$930

Typical range · USD

Rush & Day-of Tickets

Rush tickets available at 50% off for performances where inventory allows. Online purchases available three hours before curtain (may require promo code); in-person purchases at box office two hours before curtain. Maximum 4 rush tickets per person. Subject to availability and not offered for near-capacity shows.

Student Discounts

Full-time degree-seeking college and graduate students can access $20 discount tickets through the free NEXT program by registering online with student ID. NEXT Now subscriptions offer $20 tickets for three or more shows with advance seat selection. Exclusive college night events with receptions and speakers also available.

Getting There

Civic Center (CTA Red, Brown, Orange, Pink, Purple lines); Washington (CTA Blue line); Randolph/Wabash (CTA Brown, Orange, Pink, Purple lines)

Around the Venue

Plan your visit — dining, transit, and performer resources nearby

Plan Your Visit

Chicago

Pre-show dining, bars & more for Lyric Opera of Chicago visitors.

Full visit guide

Green Room — Chicago

Performer City Guide

3 practice spaces

The Fine Arts Building Studios
Check the building directory for available practice rooms and current voice teachers. Rates vary by studio. The building is a one-stop resource for vocal coaching, piano practice, and instrument lessons.
Pianoforte Chicago
Book online. The pianos are well-maintained, which matters. Rates are $15-30/hour depending on room and instrument. The South Loop location is convenient to Loop venues.
Old Town School of Folk Music
The classes are excellent and affordable. The community is welcoming. Even if folk is not your genre, the ensemble musicianship workshops transfer to any discipline.

Open city guidePatron

Venue Details

Architecture

Beaux-Arts

Heritage

Chicago Landmark; listed on the National Register of Historic Places

Resident Company

Lyric Opera of Chicago

Current Season

View Lyric Opera of Chicago Season Schedule

Coming Soon

Upcoming performances

Opera

Don Giovanni

Oct 10, 2026 – Oct 10, 2026· 3h 25m

Dir Robert FallsCond Enrique MazzolaChor August Tye

Full cast visible to Patron members

Lyric Opera of Chicago

Now & Coming Soon

The Experience

Acoustics

Best Seats

Dress Code

Visitor Guide

Ticket Prices

Rush & Day-of Tickets

Student Discounts

Getting There

Around the Venue

Chicago

Performer City Guide

Venue Details

Current Season

Coming Soon

Insider Access

Visit & Connect

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