…..Because the American Chamber Opera Company is in Dana Point, California!

Flying out only hours before a massive snowstorm in our home base of Chicago, IL, a portion of our artistic talent and administration graced the runway of LAX in the wee hours of the morning to take the west coast opera community by storm!  Most of us didn’t sleep.   But it was, without question, worth it.

Aliso Creek Beach

                   See??

While the beaches are glorious, and the public at large is clad generally in t-shirts, we’re here for a productive and serious purpose:  to lead the way in providing relatable opera, stories that people can viscerally react and sincerely connect to,  to every person of every demographic who would like to take part.

The first step toward achieving that purpose took place last night at Geneva Presbyterian Church, where our concert featured “Scenes from  La Bohème,” supplemented by short speeches by the cast members to explain the libretto in further detail.

Concert at Geneva Presbyterian Church

We were not alone in our mission to bring a little light to the world.  We were joined by the Free Wheelchair mission, who participated with us as a fundraising partner, who gave a touching speech prior to the concert.  The Free Wheelchair Mission is a not-for-profit organization that provides wheelchairs for the less fortunate in developing countries.  The services provided by The Free Wheelchair Mission have brought mobility, and so freedom, to those in desperate need.  We were proud that they agreed to be involved with us, and hope that we can maintain a relationship in the future!

www.freewheelchairmission.org

Today, the American Chamber Opera Company is heading to Chino, California to perform in the beautiful home of Ann and Sergio Morales.  We’re thrilled to join them and provide some afternoon entertainment!

Here’s another dose of ridiculously beautiful weather for those of you stuck in the midwest snowstorm:

Wowzers.

*Photos are courtesy of David Parker and Benjamin De Los Monteros.