The Met’s Laffont Competition—previously known as the Metropolitan Opera National Council Auditions—is designed to discover promising young opera singers and assist in the development of their careers and is sponsored by hundreds of donors and volunteers from across North and South America. Some of today’s greatest singers got their starts in the competition, including Jamie Barton, Stephanie Blythe, Lawrence Brownlee, Anthony Roth Costanzo, Emily D’Angelo, Michael Fabiano, Renée Fleming, Susan Graham, Ryan Speedo Green, Lisette Oropesa, Eric Owens, and Nadine Sierra.
🎶 Experience the Next Generation of Opera Stars in Illinois
The stage is set for the Illinois District Competition of the Metropolitan Opera Laffont Competition, where promising young opera singers will come together to compete for the opportunity to advance toward one of opera’s most prestigious national competitions.
Come hear tomorrow’s opera stars today. Join us for an hour or the full inspiring day of music, talent, and high-stakes competition—and support the exceptional young artists carrying the future of opera forward.
Bring a friend, discover a new favorite voice, and be part of this exciting celebration of opera in Illinois.
🗓️ Sunday, November 15, 2026
🕛 10:30 AM CST to approx. 5:30 PM CST
📍 Ganz Hall, Roosevelt University
430 S. Michigan Avenue, Chicago, IL
The competition is open to the public with free general admission.
Donations in any amount are most welcome.
