The 2025–26 season was a historic year for Lyric Opera of Kansas City, as we celebrated the return to four full operas. In 2025, we honored the roots of our artform by presenting two pillars of Italian opera. In 2026, we selected works to help mark the 250th anniversary of the United States, honoring the voices, histories, and artistry that continue to shape our national story. As we wrap up for the season, take a moment to relive some of the most memorable moments from the last year.
The Shows
Our season began with a newly-built production of one of Rossini's Cinderella, followed by one of Puccini's great operatic masterpieces, Madame Butterfly. In the second half of our season, as a part of America's 250th anniversary, we paid homage with three productions that represented some of the most influential artists in American history: the Lyric's first-ever production of Porgy and Bess, a new touring production of Langston Hughes: A Lyrical Life, and a new co-production of Carlisle Floyd's operatic telling of the Steinbeck novella, Of Mice and Men. Relive the highlights by visiting the show galleries below.
Season Reactions
By The Numbers
Lyric Opera in Action
Season Sponsors
The 2026–2027 season is sponsored by the Richard J. Stern Foundation for the Arts; the Muriel McBrien Kauffman Family Foundation; the Lyric Opera of Kansas City Foundation; R.C. Kemper Charitable Trust, UMB Bank, n.a., Trustee; and Carter Community Memorial Trust, UMB Bank, n.a., Trustee; with public support from Missouri Arts Council, a state agency.
