The Chicago Symphony Orchestra, conducted by James Conlon, is paired with an all-star cast for an evening of great George Gershwin hits on Saturday, July 23 for the Gala Benefit concert. Soprano Sylvia McNair joins Broadway’s hottest new star Kelli O’Hara, leading man Brian Stokes Mitchell and one of the all-time great players of Rhapsody in Blue, Kevin Cole for an evening filled with the best of Gershwin.
Ever since Gershwin’s historic Ravinia debut in 1936, his immortal melodies and music have been a major attraction for Ravinia audiences. This concert will recreate Gershwin’s 1936 performance at the park. It is a part of the annual Gala Benefit Evening hosted by the Ravinia Festival Women’s Board. The performance will run approximately 75 minutes with no intermission. Guests are welcome to stay on the lawn and enjoy the evening after the performance. Proceeds from the fundraiser help support classical music at Ravinia and in the community through our REACH*TEACH*PLAY programs.