MURDER AT THE OPERA
The 2026 Chicago Opera Theater Gala
SUNDAY, MAY 3, 2026 • 5:00–9:00 PM
Venue West • 221 N Paulina Street • Chicago
Join us to support COT’s mission to present bold productions, champion new voices,
and empower creativity in Chicago’s youth
and to honor
Dorothy “Dottie” Osborn (Walton), beloved former Board President
and longtime trustee for her tireless dedication to and support of COT
Festive Cocktail Attire | Complimentary on-site parking is available.
HELP US SOLVE THE CASE…
On Sunday, May 3, 2026, Chicago Opera Theater will transform Venue West into the setting for Murder at the Opera—an immersive, theatrical gala that blends music and mystery in equal measure. Guests will step into a glamorous operatic whodunnit, where famous opera characters mingle among you, secrets unfold over cocktails and dinner, and musical clues are woven throughout the evening. Whether you choose to immerse yourself in the mystery or simply enjoy watching the drama unfold, the evening promises elegance, surprise, and no shortage of intrigue—all in support of the daring work that defines Chicago Opera Theater.
The festivities begin with a jubilant cocktail reception at 5:00pm, followed by a sumptuous dinner prepared by J&L Catering. Thrilling performances by our operatic suspects will be woven throughout the evening, alongside a hand-selected auction of exclusive experiences and a paddle raise—offering you the chance to champion the COT programs closest to your heart.
This year’s gala will also honor Dorothy Osborn—beloved former Board President, longtime trustee, and tireless champion of COT.
SINGLE TICKETS - $500 ($325 tax deductible)
HONORARY COMMITTEE
CHIEF INSPECTORS - $50,000 ($48,250 tax deductible)
Premiere table with up to 10 gala tickets, and prominent lead sponsor recognition
LEAD INVESTIGATORS - $25,000 ($23,600 tax deductible)
Premier table with up to 8 gala tickets, prominent lead sponsor recognition
SPECIAL AGENTS - $10,000 ($8,950 tax deductible)
Shared table with up to 6 gala tickets, prominent sponsor recognition
PRIVATE DETECTIVES - $5,000 ($4,300 tax deductible)
Shared table with up to 4 gala tickets, sponsor recognition
FIELD OPERATIVES - $1,750 ($1,400 tax deductible)
Shared table with 2 gala tickets, sponsor recognition
As an Honorary Committee member, you will receive:
* Premium seating for you & your guests *
* Recognition on the printed invitation (for commitments received by March 1) *
* Recognition on our website and in the event program *
* And most importantly, the knowledge that your support directly fuels COT’s mission to present bold productions, champion new voices, empower creativity in Chicago’s youth, and serve our city through opera that sparks connection and conversation. *
THANK YOU TO OUR HONORARY COMMITTEE MEMBERS!
PRIVATE DETECTIVES
Queta Rodríguez Bauer and Ron Bauer
Allen Heinemann and William Borden
Dr. and Mrs. Peter Lagios
Sylvia Neil and Daniel Fischel
Dorothy F. Osborn
Virginia Tobiason
FIELD OPERATIVES
Ellen Benjamin and Frederick Bates
Judith and Merrill Blau
Lisa Bury and John Taylor
Nancy Dehmlow
Kent Dymak and Theodore Foss
Lawrence Edelson and Kevin Kotcher
Erika Erich
Geoffrey A. Flick
Sue and Paul Freehling
Michael Hansen and Nancy Randa
Mary Houston
Mrs. Beatriz Iorgulescu
Susan Irion and Rob DeLand
Rhoda Ann and Bill Miller
KaTerri M. Kelly and Nikko D. Ross
Dave E. Miller
Susan Noel
Marshall Sparberg
Mark Tiarks and Marquita Russel