The Opera Gala

Dear Sponsors and Guests of The Opera Gala 2024,

We are reaching out to inform you of a recent change to the dinner location of The Opera Gala on Sunday, November 10.

Earlier this week, Boston Lyric Opera made the decision to relocate our Gala dinner to BLO’s Opera & Community Studios at 15 Channel Center Street, Boston, MA 02210 (at Midway Artist Studios) along the Fort Point Channel and South Boston waterfront.

This decision was made in response to the ongoing labor strike at the Hilton Boston Park Plaza by Local 26 hospitality workers. As an organization committed to collaboration with diverse employee groups and unions, BLO respects the rights of all workers and deeply values these partnerships. After we made this decision earlier this week, we received word that the Hilton and Local 26 have reached a tentative agreement. Although we are pleased to hear of progress toward resolution, given the timeline and the extensive preparations required, we will move forward with an event at the Opera & Community Studios to ensure a high-quality experience for all our guests.

Our Opera & Community Studios, BLO’s new creative hub, will provide an intimate and inspiring setting for this year’s Gala dinner following the performance of Aida at the Emerson Colonial Theatre. Some aspects of the evening may be adjusted to suit the new space, but our purpose remains steadfast: to connect with our community and raise vital funds that support BLO’s mission and vision.

Our team will be in touch with further details early next week. Organizing this change has been a significant undertaking, and we are deeply grateful for the support of our Gala Chairs, the Gala Committee, and the BLO staff, all of whom have worked tirelessly to ensure an unforgettable event. Shuttle service transportation will be available for all guests to travel to and from both locations. Thank you for your patience and understanding, more details will follow!

This year’s Gala exemplifies the importance of BLO’s expanded space, which allows us to showcase our work and our vision in a setting we now call our own. Your support has made this flexibility possible, underscoring the impact of BLO’s Opera & Community Studios on our artists and community.

Thank you for your understanding and support. We look forward to celebrating together in a space that truly reflects the spirit of BLO.

Sincerely,

Alicia Cooney, Board Chair and Co-Chair of The Opera Gala 2024
Alex Senchak, Philanthropy Chair and Co-Chair of The Opera Gala 2024
Bradley Vernatter, Stanford Calderwood General Director & CEO