Opera Star And Evanston Resident Sondra Radvanovsky Makes Her Triumphant Return To Lyric Opera In Medea
Photo: Kyle Flubacker
As Lyric Opera of Chicago kicks off its 2025–26 season, internationally acclaimed soprano and Evanston resident Sondra Radvanovsky takes on the title role in one of opera’s most formidable works: Medea. Here, the celebrated performer chats with NS about her passion for the art form, what’s next for her, and why—after decades on the world’s grandest stages—Chicago still feels like home.
What do you enjoy most about being an opera singer?
The people, people, people. The interaction with the audience and the energy that is put out by them. And I also love the artistic interaction with my peers: the tenors, conductors, stage directors, make-up artists and everyone else who is involved in putting together a work of art.
What makes this such an iconic opera?
Well, first, [Medea is] based on Greek mythology. And second, it was ingeniously portrayed by Maria Callas.
What does returning to Chicago mean to you after years on the international stage?
It’s coming home for me, but I could not ask for a better artistic location given the reputation of Northwestern University, Ravinia, the Chicago Symphony and obviously Lyric Opera of Chicago.
What are some of your favorite spots on the North Shore?
My first date with my boyfriend was at Union Pizzeria in Evanston, so it holds a special place in my heart. The beautiful beaches and parks along Lake Michigan, as well as the Northwestern Observatory, are also special to us. And for a romantic getaway, we love to go to the Deer Path Inn for a weekend dinner out.
What can we expect from you in 2026?
Expect to run into me on the streets of Evanston! But on a professional level, I’ll be making my role debut in Puccini’s Western themed opera La Fanciulla del West, as well as a new recital program and collaboration with composer Jake Heggie on a new song cycle about dementia called If I Had Known.