2006 Opera Ball to Salute the American Automobile Industry

For Outstanding Community Service and Contributions to Arts and Culture of Detroit

DETROIT, Michigan, Sept 22, 2006…Michigan Opera Theatre’s 20th annual Opera Ball, held Sunday, October 8, 2006, at 6:00 p.m., will salute American automakers DaimlerChrysler, Ford Motor Company and General Motors, for their outstanding support of the arts and cultural life of Detroit.

“In this time, when so much of the news from America’s automakers is negative, we wanted to take an evening to focus on the positive, and recognize these great organizations for the support they have given our community, and our organization,” said David DiChiera, Founder and General Director of Michigan Opera Theatre.  “These corporations have supported Michigan Opera Theatre since day one, and their contributions, both financial and in-kind, have been instrumental in our continued success.  Without their support, much of our work—whether it be the restoration of our beautiful home, the educational programs we’ve presented or the artistic endeavors we’ve staged—would not have been possible.”

DaimlerChrysler is the title sponsor of the 2006/2007 DaimlerChrysler Dance Series. Ford Motor Company is the title sponsor of Michigan Opera Theatre’s 2006 Fall Opera Season. Cadillac is the title sponsor of the 2007 Spring Opera Season. These have been annual sponsorships for all three corporations since the opening of the Detroit Opera House, in 1996. Additionally, all three automakers have provided Michigan Opera Theatre with necessary support for main stage productions, educational programs, community outreach and the restoration of the Detroit Opera House.

The 2006 Opera Ball will be held at the Detroit Opera House
(1526 Broadway, Detroit, 48226). An opulent affair, the black-tie gala is Michigan Opera Theatre’s largest annual fundraiser. Revenue from Opera Ball is used to support the company’s main stage productions, as well as educational programs and community outreach throughout the state of Michigan and beyond. In 2005, Opera Ball raised roughly $450,000 in support of these programs.

For 2006, Opera Ball will feature a succulent dinner of medallions of Australian rack of lamb, prepared by Opus One, and entertainment by Mel Ball and Colours. The evening will also include a live auction, with high-end lots including spa packages, travel packages and a variety of unique opportunities for arts lovers.

Reservations for the black-tie gala are $500 per person, and include valet parking along with dinner and entertainment. To reserve, please contact Heather Hamilton at (313) 237-3425.

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