The Asheville Lyric Opera (ALO) is presenting a multitude of performances, Opera Talks, and public concerts in their 2016-2017 seasons. From Singing in the Park to Cavalleria Rusticana, there is an event for everyone with ALO.

On September 9th, ALO continues its series on Muhammad Ali. The heavyweight champion’s legacy has been recorded by lifetime friend and bestselling author Davis Miller. His novel was recently transformed into a new American opera: Approaching Ali. ALO will host a mini-performance and lecture with Davis Miller and Artistic Director David Craig Starkey at the UNCA Reuter Center from 3-5pm. Performance will feature North Carolina natives and world-renowned vocalists Carl Dupont (as Ali) and Ted Federle (as Miller). The lecture will consist of Q&A between Miller, Starkey, and the audience. Gain insight to the life of Ali, and see it exhibited as the world of opera and boxing collide.

Singing in the Park is October 9th at Pack Square Park, free and open to the public. Outstanding artists and choruses will present music in its most classic form. Bring a blanket and a friend, and listen to something new at Singing in the Park.

Artistic Director David Craig Starkey is co-hosting September’s Art Talk with Jeff Messer on 880AM at the UNCA Reuter Center. On September 30th at 1PM, ALO invites the public to be a part of the audience in this engaging discussion of modern opera, new American works, and creative impact. Free and open to the public.

On October 13th at 5pm, ALO is hosting a fundraising event at the Historic Opera House Venue on the top floor of Asheville’s Masonic Temple. The event will ensure a relaxing night of hors devours, enlightening conversation, and will wrap up the Ali series with a performance of highlights from Approaching Ali. All proceeds raised from the event will directly benefit both the creation and preservation of traditional opera in Western North Carolina, allowing Asheville to remain one of the pioneers of classical music in the Southeast. For reservations and more information, call the ALO office at 828.236.0670, or message info@ashevillelyric.org.

ALO is alive and thriving, and is excited to share musical talent in Western North Carolina. For more information on any of these events, visit our website at ashevillelyric.org, call 828.236.0670, or email info@ashevillelyric.org.