Seattle Opera reaches out to lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender community

Seattle Opera is looking to build its audience by reaching out to lesbian/gay/bisexual/transgender music fans. The arts organization announced three LGBT Nights at McCaw Hall during the upcoming 2008-09 season.

At these designated performances, patrons may pay $100 for discounted main-floor orchestra seating, private intermission receptions (with wine, hors d'oeuvres and desserts) and admission to preshow lectures. The inaugural event — an Aug. 22 presentation of "Aida" — will be hosted by Seattle Opera trustee JJ McKay and Washington state Sen. Ed Murray. Tickets for the evening are on sale now.

"Our [LGBT Night] guests will be able to socialize, make new friends and network with other operagoers while attending performances at one of the premier opera companies. Opera is for everyone," said Seattle Opera's director of marketing and communications Alvin Alexander Henry in a prepared statement.

Future LGBT Nights are "The Pearl Fishers" on Jan. 23, 2009, and "Marriage of Figaro" on May 15. Both go on sale Sept. 2.

For tickets and information, go to www.seattleopera.org/LGBT or call 206- 389-7676.

Seattle Times staff