Benefiting the University of Kentucky’s
Opera Theatre Program
Saturday, November 15, 2025
Gatton Student Center Ballroom
About
OperaLex has long been dedicated to enriching the cultural fabric of our community through exceptional operatic performances, educational programs, and community outreach. Our efforts have brought world-class talent to our stages, inspired budding artists, and fostered a deep appreciation for the arts among audiences of all ages.
This November, we are hosting our annual fundraising event, Grand Encore Affair, an unforgettable evening dinner, open bar, student and alumni performances, dancing, silent and live auction items, mystery boxes, and more!
Encore will be held at the Gatton Student Center Grand Ballroom on Saturday, November 15th, at 6:30 p.m. We anticipate an enthusiastic turnout of our supporters, patrons, and community leaders.
We plan to honor Dr. Sanford “Sandy” Archer as the Champion of the Voice award winner. Dr. Archer has been a longtime supporter of UK Opera Theatre and OperaLex.
Dr. Everett McCorvey
Artistic Director
Bonnie Mays
Board President
The mission of OperaLex is to support the University of Kentucky Opera Theatre program. OperaLex provides assistance to promote high-quality UK Opera productions and to help educate the next generation of performers and educators.
Every year, approximately 7,000 people attend UK Opera Theatre performances and OperaLex events.
Our audience members are civic-minded individuals who are engaged in the community.
Grand Encore Affair is our premier fundraising event of the year – cocktails and an elegant dinner, followed by dancing and performances from our supremely talented students – an event you’ll not want to miss!
Interested in Attending Grand Encore Affair?
Saturday, November 15, 2025 | 6:30 PM
Gatton Student Center Ballroom
Your ticket unlocks an unforgettable evening—whether it’s meeting the talented students of UK Opera Theatre, hearing them perform up close, connecting with fellow opera lovers, or enjoying conversations with faculty. Every moment is filled with music, community, and celebration.
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Full Table (8 Tickets) $2,000
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Half Table (4 Tickets) $1,000
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Individual Ticket $250
Interested in Sponsoring Grand Encore Affair?
Saturday, November 15, 2025 | 6:30 PM
Gatton Student Center Ballroom
Your sponsorship can make a lasting impact—whether it’s covering tuition for vocal performance students, funding a custom set or premium costumes, supporting live orchestral accompaniment, or helping graduates take the next step in their careers. Every gift helps bring the magic of UK Opera Theatre to life.
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Spotlight Sponsor $25,000
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Stagecraft Sponsor $20,000
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Costume Sponsor $15,000
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Orchestra Sponsor $10,000
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Journey Sponsor $5,000
$15,000
PRESENTING SPONSOR (ONE AVAILABLE)
- Three tables of eight – premium seating
- Recognition live at the event, on OperaLex website, program, in print and online publications, and at OperaLex events and UK Opera Theatre productions
- Placement on a pop-up banner that is placed at all UK Opera Theatre and OperaLex events
- Four tickets to one of each of these performances of the 2024-2025 UK Opera Theatre season: The Marriage of Figaro in October, Alltech Celebration of Song in December, Sanctuary Road in February, and Grand Night for Singing in June
- Invitations to special donor events and activities
- 45-minute in-home performance by UK Opera Theatre faculty and staff
- Access to preferred parking at special events
- Luncheon with the Artistic Director, Everett McCorvey, and exclusive opportunities to travel with Director to see operas around the country (travel expenses not included)
$10,000
PERFORMANCE SPONSOR (TWO AVAILABLE)
- Two tables of eight – preferred seating
- Recognition live at the event, on OperaLex website, program, in print and online publications, and at OperaLex events and UK Opera Theatre productions.
- Placement on a pop-up banner that is placed at all UK Opera Theatre and OperaLex events.
- Two tickets to one of each of these performances of the 2024-2025 UK Opera Theatre season: The Marriage of Figaro in October, Alltech Celebration of Song in December, Sanctuary Road in February, and Grand Night for Singing in June
- Invitations to special donor events and activities
- 45-minute in-home performance by UK Opera Theatre faculty and staff
- Access to preferred parking at special events
- Luncheon with the Artistic Director, Everett McCorvey, and exclusive opportunities to travel with Director to see operas around the country (travel expenses not included)
$5,000
PATRON SPONSOR
- One table of eight – preferred seating
- Recognition live at the event, on OperaLex website, program, in print and online publications, and at OperaLex events and UK Opera Theatre productions
- Placement on a pop-up banner that is placed at all UK Opera Theatre and OperaLex events
- Two tickets to one performance in the 2024-2025 UK Opera Theatre season (your choice)
- Invitations to special donor events and activities
- 45-minute in-home performance by faculty and staff
- Access to preferred parking at special events
- Luncheon with the Artistic Director, Everett McCorvey
$2,500
ARIA SUPPORTER
- One reserved table for eight
- Recognition on the OperaLex Website, program, in print and online publications, and at OperaLex events and UK Opera Theatre productions
- Invitations to special donor events and activities
$1,500
CHORUS SUPPORTER
- Four reserved seats
- Recognition on the OperaLex Website, in programs, in printed and online
- publications, and at OperaLex events and UK Opera Theatre productions
- Invitations to special donor events and activities
