Lyric Brings Opera to Seven Oaks Senior Center

The Seven Oaks Senior Center welcomed members of the Lyric Opera House Wednesday afternoon for a performance ranging from classic opera to the tunes of Broadway.

It was the first time the Lyric's outreach program performed in Baltimore County. 

“Having the Lyric here is just a special gift," said Terry Almon, assistant director of the center. "It adds to the culture of the senior center and Seven Oaks."

The performance featured internationally known soprano soloist Natalie Conte and Director of Opera James Harp, who served as the pianist. 

“We’re very excited," Harp said. "It’s wonderful to outreach to the people all around Baltimore.” 

The Lyric received a grant from Verizon, which enables them to do free performances. While the program has performed mainly in the city, the organization recently developed a partnership with the Baltimore County Department of Aging. They plan to visit other area senior centers as well.

Conte and Harp performed what Conte described as "some of the greatest hits of opera," including Puccini’s “Quando Me'n Vo'” and The Music Man’s “Till There Was You.”

At the beginning of the performance, Harp introduced Conte as the "Italian diva" of the Lyric.

“[Opera] has always been a passion of mine and my mother’s parents were both opera singers,” she said. 

More than 50 area seniors attended the event, which included a catered lunch. They were a mix of those who have always loved opera, those who have grown to love it and those who simply enjoy center events. 

John Boesl, a center member, said he would definitely attend another Lyric event if it happens again.

Almon said he hopes for a repeat performance in the future. "Oh, certainly," he said. "Especially when we see the response." 

Download the movie