The Sheraton Kansas City Hotel at Crown Center was the site for the annual Lyric Opera Ball, hosted by the Lyric Opera Circle. This year’s event, which was held on April 1st, had the theme “Celebrating Sondheim – ‘Send in the Clowns.’” Drs. Karla and Ivan Batlle served as the honorary chairmen. Edie Downing and Juliette Singer were the Ball co-chairmen. Peggy Beal and Karen Yungmeyer served as the auction co-chairmen. Guests were greeted by Mary Beth Gentry, Lyric Opera Circle president, and Craig L. Evans, Lyric Opera board president. Among the evening’s entertainers were a stilt walker, a mime, a contortionist, and a magician. The agenda featured cocktails, a silent auction, a raffle, and a delicious dinner, followed by performances by the Lyric Opera’s resident artists, and then dancing to the tunes of Lost Wax.
Andy and Peggy Beal, auction co-chairman
Jenny Manka, Trish Church Podlasek and Vernon Podlasek, and Ann and Terry Bender
Members of Lost Wax performed for the guests.
Nicole Browne and Julia Irene Kauffman
Angela and John Walker
Featured in the May 27, 2023 issue of The Independent.
Photo Credit: Kenny Johnson
