This year’s Metropolitan Opera Guild’s Annual Diamond Jubilee honors legendary singers Martina Arroyo and Teresa Stratas on the occasion of the 60th anniversary of their debuts in the opera house. Ailyn Pérez and Matthew Polenzani will perform for the event, and Stephanie Blythe will make a few remarks. The Guild’s 85th Annual Luncheon will take place on November 20 at Cipriani in New York City.
The occasion marks a special chance for Ailyn to honor Martina Arroyo, who is a mentor to her and has influenced her career in many ways. She first began working with Mrs. Arroyo as one of her voice students at Indiana University, where she received her undergraduate degree. In 2017, Ailyn was honored at The Martina Arroyo Foundation’s 13th Annual Gala, which celebrates her Prelude to Performance, Role Class and Outreach Programs.
The Metropolitan Opera Guild was established in 1935 to broaden the base of support for the Metropolitan Opera, promote greater interest in opera, and develop future audiences by reaching out to a wide public and serving as an educational resource that provides programs, publications, materials and services to schools, families, individuals, and community groups nationwide. During the Luncheon, the Guild produces an annual series of public programs at major New York City venues that celebrate both the art and artists of opera.
Ailyn Pérez with Martina Arroyo at the Martina Arroyo Foundation’s 13th Annual Gala. Photo: Broadway World.