Lyric Opera reschedules 'Proving Up' to future season due to COVID-19 concerns

The Lyric Opera of Chicago has postponed the local premiere of "Proving Up" for the second time due to concerns about the COVID-19 pandemic.

The 2018 chamber opera about Nebraska homesteaders by composer Missy Mazzoli and librettist Royce Vavrek was scheduled for a four-performance run at Chicago's Goodman Theatre from Jan. 22 to 30. "Proving Up" was also previously announced for the Lyric's 2020-21 season, which was canceled in its entirely due to the pandemic.

"This difficult decision is based on our current understanding of the ever-changing public health situation, with the goal of keeping the safety of our company, our audiences and our artists as our overriding priority," said Lyric Opera of Chicago general director Anthony Freud in a statement.

"Proving Up" rehearsals were to have begun this week. Lyric plans to reschedule to a future season.

Ticket holders are being contacted directly and may keep the value of their tickets on account, donate the value or request a refund.

Lyric's season is set to continue on Feb. 6 with a "Verdi Voices" concert starring Naperville native Tamara Wilson. At that time, the Lyric will require that all audience members be both fully vaccinated, and when eligible, to have received their vaccine booster shot, to attend any performance. Vaccinated children, ages five and up, are also now welcome to join with their guardians for Lyric performances.

For more information, call (312) 827-5600 or visit lyricopera.org.