Lyric Opera Circle’s “A Toast to Opera” Ball Spreads A Wave of Euphoric Classical Music in Kansas City

An Eternal Ode to Opera’s Grace and Grandeur

In a portrayal of timeless elegance and artistic charm, the Lyric Opera Ball, themed “A Toast to Opera,” turned the spotlight on the rich tapestry of operatic tradition. Held successfully on April 20th at the Muehlebach Tower of the Kansas City Marriott Downtown, this enchanting soirée wonderfully embodied the evocative beauty of a “springtime in Paris” evening.

Gorgeous Décor, Gourmet Dishes, and a Performing Arts Spectacle

Leading event design company, Studio Dan Meiners, transformed the venue into a visual feast, while the guests indulged in a culinary spectacle featuring a delectable dinner. Adding to the celebratory ambience were a lively auction and breathtaking performances by the Lyric Opera of Kansas City Resident and Apprentice artists. As if this wasn’t enough, the evening wound down with guests swaying elegantly to the captivating tunes of Lost Wax.

Saluting the Anchors of the Opera Gala: Sharon Barry and Deanna Diebolt

The Lyric Opera Ball remained a symbol of operatic sophistication, thanks to the diligent efforts of Sharon Barry and Deanna Diebolt, the co-chairmen of the Ball. Their contribution to the meticulous planning and orchestration of this grand event made the evening a truly memorable experience for all attendees.

Celebrating Opera Glitterati and Philanthropy

Joining Barry and Diebolt in their triumphant toast to opera were several dignitaries, including Deborah Sandler Kemper, General Director of the Lyric Opera of Kansas City, and Carmen Sabates, the Circle president. Their camaraderie underscored the event’s driving goal: to celebrate and advance the cause of opera in the region.

A Nod to Diversity in Artistic Performances

Famed artists Darren Sextro and John Rensenhouse enthralled the audience with their commanding performances. Also playing crucial roles in making the evening remarkable were benefactor party hosts Dan DeLeon, Lauren DeLeon, and Jerry Katlin.

Follow-up Events Build on the Momentum

Following the grandeur of the Opera Ball, the Lyric Opera Circle doesn´t rest on its laurels. Several events were lined up to sustain the promising wave of interest in the opera art form. These include the Spring Luncheon, celebrated at the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts on May 1st.

While the Opera Ball posed a “Toast to Opera”, these subsequent cultural plugs aim at keeping the toast burning, celebrating the eternal charisma and emotive power of opera.