Carnaval!

Carnaval! is a party celebrating the end of the holiday season before the introspection of Lent begins, culminating in Mardi Gras, French for “Fat Tuesday.” Lyric Theatre @ Illinois will celebrate with music and dance from Latin America, Spain, and Portugal—from operatic favorites to cabaret, musical theatre, salsa, tango, and more. Accompanied by the beauty of the Lyric Theatre Orchestra, the Latin Jazz Ensemble led by Tito Carrillo, and the Guitar Ensemble led by Guido Sanchez-Portugez, in Foellinger Great Hall, the company of Lyric Theatre @ Illinois will dazzle, delight, and entrance.

Bring your Mardi Gras masks, dress up, and join the fun in the Krannert Center Lobby at 6pm. Enjoy an appetizer and a drink while trying your luck at the gaming tables and listening to performances by the U of I Latin American Ensemble and local Afro-Brazilian percussion group Bloco Gavião, then follow the parade of Marching Illini, acrobats, and cast into the Great Hall. Dessert will be served at intermission, and the guest who receives the special piece of cake will be crowned the Sovereign of Carnaval! Don’t miss the family-friendly fun.

Party starts at 6pm in the Lobby.
Concert follows at 7:30pm in Foellinger Great Hall.

If you can, show your love for the arts by purchasing an “Advocate” ticket; the additional ticket cost directly benefits Lyric Theatre @ Illinois.