REPORTSÂ TO: Senior Director of Communications
STATUS:Â Full-time, exempt
Â
Through artistic excellence coupled with innovative, relevant programming; initiatives to connect with and grow new audiences; engagement with communities to ignite creativity across Chicago; and a modernized Opera House that is the setting for truly great experiences, Lyric is leading the advancement of opera. This collaborative vision will deliver ever more exciting, thought-provoking and inclusive audience and community experiences – while increasing the gravitational pull of our art form, our company, and our city.
Â
We are searching for a Public Relations Manager responsible for content creation and management, media relations, and public relations administration. Lyric Opera of Chicago’s Public Relations Manager will play a key role in communicating the company’s vision to the public in two major areas: content creation and media relations. This position is responsible for generating content across multiple platforms (blog, magazine, e-newsletter, program book, videos, etc.). This position also manages media relations for Lyric’s Learning and Creative Engagement division (Lyric Unlimited), The Patrick G. and Shirley W. Ryan Opera Center, new initiatives, special projects, recitals, and the annual musical event. The Public Relations Manager is also responsible for managing critical administrative duties that assist with media monitoring, timely and accurate communication with the press, the company, and the general public.
Â
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
Content Creation and Management
- Write newsletter, performance programs, book articles, and blog posts, as assigned.
- Research and interview artists for video features, help oversee the distribution, use, and re-use of these assets with the communications team and assist with other new production activities, as assigned.
- Create web and brochure copy as needed.
- Edit and proofread print, electronic, and video materials as needed.
Media Relations
- Supervise media relations for all Lyric Unlimited events, Lyric special events, original digital projects, the annual chamber opera, and the annual mainstage musical (writing press releases, identify and pitch stories, establish relationships with artists, and press partnerships. Supervise photoshoots, interviews, build upon existing press lists, etc.).
- Supervise media relations for the Ryan Opera Center, the post-graduate professional artists training program at Lyric.
- Assist with Lyric’s mainstage opera season, as needed.
- Manage day to day relationships with third-party PR firms hired to assist with special and main stage projects (musicals, Lyric Unlimited and grand opera).
- Write press releases; manage internal circulation and electronic distribution of all releases.
- Assist with managing and training of PR interns.
- Assist in planning and staffing of media events.
Public Relations Administration
- Manage press ticketing for events, including keeping season press ticketing spreadsheet, update records, and create orders in Tessitura.
- Build and maintain Lyric’s press lists.
- Maintain Lyric’s online press room.
- Staff the press table for select opening nights and other special events.
- Create and maintain season media calendar, including press release and pitch schedules.
- Participate in the creation and distribution of the company’s weekly roundup of online and print coverage of Lyric, other arts institutions, and general cultural news.
- Supervise the maintenance of comprehensive electronic media log.
- Select and distribute photo assets from individual operas and Lyric events.
- Respond to photo requests from media.
- Oversee data collection, as assigned, for monitoring press and media efforts efficacy and manage Lyric’s outside media monitoring service.
- Manage invitations and RSVPs for media events; maintain and update email press lists.
- As the business evolves, so may this role. These duties may change as Lyric’s leadership identified the need at any time.
KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS:
- Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited college or university in English, journalism, communications, or equivalent experience.
- At least 3 years of solid communications experience, ideally with a nonprofit or cultural organization.
- Working knowledge of and comfort working with:
- Microsoft suite of products
- CRM expertise (Tessitura a strong plus)
- Airtable
- Slack
- ProofHQ
- Outstanding communication skills, including the ability to speak to journalists and other members of the public with clarity and discretion.
- Excellent writing skills with the ability to tailor messages to diverse audiences.
- Working experience with the Chicago-area media market, particularly classical music, theater, and cultural outlets.
- Knowledge of classical music and opera.
- Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
- Ability to work and think independently, a motivated self-starter who also works well in a larger team.
WORK CONDITIONS:
- Ability to occasionally oversee evening or weekend performances and special events.
- Sitting for extended periods.
- Ability to lift 30lbs.
- Ability to operate a computer keyboard, mouse and to handle other office equipment. Â
The Lyric Opera of Chicago is committed to enhancing our diverse work environment and is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. Lyric does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, gender identity, religion, sexual orientation, age, disability, parental status, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable laws. We encourage individuals of all backgrounds to apply.
Lyric Opera of Chicago
Related jobs:
Job Description
A creator relations team is seeking digital content creators and talent representatives who work with influencers in finance, business, and entrepreneurship-related niches. The casting team is looking to connect with creators who produce content in areas such as finance, crypto, bitcoin, sports betting, stocks, gambling, and entrepreneurship.
This opportunity is ideal for creators or talent representatives interested in collaborating with a brand that works with influencers across multiple international markets. Selected creators may have the opportunity to collaborate on future digital campaigns and content partnerships.
Job Responsibilities
-
Create engaging content related to finance, business, entrepreneurship, crypto, or investing topics
-
Collaborate with brand partners on sponsored or promotional campaigns
-
Maintain an active online presence across social media or digital platforms
-
Work with the brand’s creator relations team to develop campaign concepts and deliverables
-
Produce high-quality digital content aligned with brand guidelines
Requirements
-
Content creators or talent representatives in finance, business, entrepreneurship, crypto, stocks, sports betting, or gambling niches
-
Active presence on social media platforms such as YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, or similar channels
-
Ability to produce engaging and informative digital content
-
Strong audience engagement within the creator’s niche
-
Creators or agencies located in supported regions
Compensation
-
Compensation varies depending on campaign scope and creator partnership agreements
-
Potential paid brand collaborations and sponsored campaigns
-
Opportunity to build partnerships with a global creator relations network
Real Court Stenographer
Job Description
A hit Hulu series is seeking a real court stenographer with professional experience and their own equipment to appear in an upcoming filming day. Production is looking for adults with authentic courtroom experience who can portray a stenographer naturally on set. Talent should have the appropriate business attire and the tools used in real stenography work.
Job Responsibilities
-
Appear on camera as a real court stenographer in a courtroom scene
-
Bring and use your own stenography equipment during filming
-
Follow direction from the production team while maintaining realistic work behavior
-
Participate in filming for the scheduled shoot day
Requirements
-
Adults ages 18 and older
-
Must be a real court stenographer with professional experience
-
Must own and bring stenography equipment
-
Must have appropriate professional courtroom attire
-
Ability to work as a local hire
Compensation
-
$200 for 12 hours
-
Additional $50 equipment bump
Private Investigator
Job Description
A production team is casting a principal speaking role for an upcoming web commercial centered around a private investigator character. The project is seeking a white male actor in his 40s–50s to portray the role in a scripted web spot. This is a paid opportunity for talent comfortable delivering speaking lines on camera.
Job Responsibilities
-
Portray the role of a private investigator in a web commercial
-
Perform scripted dialogue on camera
-
Follow direction from the production team during filming
-
Arrive prepared and ready for a professional on-set environment
Requirements
-
White male talent, ages 40–59
-
Strong on-camera presence and acting ability
-
Comfortable performing a speaking role
-
Must be available for the scheduled shoot date
Compensation
-
$500 flat rate
Male and Female Models
Job Description
A fashion casting event is seeking male and female models to participate in an upcoming model casting call. This opportunity is open to aspiring and experienced models who want to showcase their look and personality in front of fashion industry professionals. The casting event aims to discover fresh talent and connect models with opportunities in fashion shows, editorial work, and creative projects.
Job Responsibilities
-
Attend the in-person model casting call
-
Present yourself confidently to casting directors and industry professionals
-
Follow directions from the casting team during the evaluation process
-
Showcase your walk, style, and personality for potential modeling opportunities
Requirements
-
Male and female models welcome
-
Open to individuals with or without prior modeling experience
-
Comfortable presenting yourself in a professional casting environment
-
Interested in fashion, runway, or modeling opportunities
Compensation
-
Opportunity to be selected for future fashion shows and modeling projects
-
Networking opportunity with industry professionals
-
Exposure to potential modeling opportunities
Actors for Feature Film
Job Description
A feature film production is casting men and women for roles in an upcoming movie project. The production is seeking performers with strong personalities and natural on-camera presence who can help bring compelling characters to life. This is a great opportunity for actors looking to gain experience in a professional film production while working on an exciting new movie.
Job Responsibilities
-
Portray characters in scenes for a feature film
-
Follow direction from the director and production team during filming
-
Deliver natural performances that support the story and characters
-
Participate in rehearsals and multiple takes as required
Requirements
-
Men and women ages 18 and older
-
Comfortable performing on camera in a film production
-
Strong personality and natural acting ability
-
Headshots and demo reels recommended if available
Compensation
-
Paid acting opportunity in a feature film production
-
Professional on-set experience working on a movie
-
Opportunity to collaborate with a film production team
Soccer Fans for National Commercial
Job Description
A national commercial is casting real soccer fans in the Rio Grande Valley for an exciting sports-themed campaign. The production is looking for enthusiastic individuals who can bring authentic fan energy, pride, and excitement to stadium-style scenes. Participants will help create lively crowd moments that capture the passion of soccer supporters in a fun and energetic commercial environment.
Job Responsibilities
-
Appear on camera as a soccer fan in crowd and celebration scenes
-
Show authentic team spirit, cheering, and excitement during filming
-
Follow direction from the production team during commercial scenes
-
Help create an energetic stadium-style atmosphere
Requirements
-
Real soccer fans ages 8–80
-
Must have genuine enthusiasm for soccer
-
Comfortable appearing on camera in a crowd environment
-
Able to participate in filming in the Rio Grande Valley area
Compensation
-
$448.70 per day (SAG extra scale)
-
Opportunity to appear in a national commercial campaign
-
Professional on-set experience in a commercial production
Comic Convention Costume Characters
Job Description
A popular television series is casting background actors to portray comic convention attendees wearing unique, non-trademarked costumes. The production is seeking individuals with creative cosplay outfits that fit sci-fi or fantasy themes to help bring an energetic convention environment to life. This opportunity is ideal for cosplayers or fans who already own distinctive costumes and want to appear on screen in a major series.
Job Responsibilities
-
Appear as a comic convention attendee in themed costume
-
Participate in background scenes recreating a lively convention environment
-
Follow direction from the production team during filming
-
Maintain character and costume consistency during multiple takes
Requirements
-
Must own a non-trademarked costume in one of the following styles:
-
Sci-Fi
-
Alien
-
Robot
-
Steampunk
-
-
Comfortable appearing on camera in full costume
-
Able to attend a fitting if scheduled and participate in filming
-
Must be able to work locally in Santa Clarita
Compensation
-
Union rate: $224 for 8 hours
-
Non-union rate: $144 for 8 hours
-
Opportunity to appear in a television series production
Hospital Background (Nurses, Doctors, Visitors)
Job Description
A television series filming in Atlanta is casting background actors to portray hospital staff and visitors in medical-themed scenes. The production is looking for individuals who can help create a realistic hospital environment by portraying nurses, doctors, and visitors within the background of the scene.
Job Responsibilities
-
Portray hospital staff or visitors in background scenes
-
Follow direction from the production team during filming
-
Perform natural hospital-related actions as needed for the scene
-
Maintain professionalism and continuity during multiple takes
Requirements
-
Men and women ages 18–60
-
Open to all ethnicities
-
Comfortable appearing in a hospital-themed filming environment
-
Must be able to work locally in Atlanta, Georgia
Compensation
-
$100 for 8 hours of work
-
Overtime pay available after 8 hours if applicable
-
Opportunity to work on a professional television production
Neighbors
Job Description
A television series filming in Atlanta, Georgia is casting background actors to portray neighbors in upcoming scenes. The production is seeking men and women who can naturally fit into a community setting and help create realistic neighborhood environments. This is a great opportunity for individuals interested in gaining on-set experience while appearing in a professional television production.
Job Responsibilities
-
Portray neighborhood residents in background scenes
-
Perform natural everyday actions such as walking, chatting, or socializing
-
Follow direction from the assistant director and production team
-
Maintain continuity and professionalism during filming
Requirements
-
Men and women ages 18–60
-
Open to all ethnicities
-
Comfortable appearing on camera in neighborhood-style scenes
-
Must be able to work locally in Atlanta, Georgia
Compensation
-
$100 for 8 hours of work
-
Overtime pay available after 8 hours if applicable
-
Opportunity to appear in a television series production
Soccer Player
Job Description
A commercial production is casting a skilled soccer player to appear in a neighborhood soccer-themed scene. The role requires strong soccer abilities, including dribbling and juggling, to help create an exciting and authentic sports moment for the commercial.
Job Responsibilities
-
Perform soccer skills such as dribbling and juggling on camera
-
Participate in outdoor scenes related to a soccer watch-party setting
-
Follow direction from the production team during filming
-
Help create an energetic sports-focused environment
Requirements
-
Man or woman ages 18–25
-
Must have soccer experience
-
Strong dribbling and juggling skills required
-
Comfortable performing soccer actions on camera
-
Must be able to work locally in the Suwanee, Georgia area
Compensation
-
$175 for the filming day
-
Paid on the day of filming by check
-
Opportunity to appear in a sports-themed commercial
Real Family
Job Description
A commercial for a popular food brand is casting a real family to appear together in a neighborhood gathering scene centered around a soccer watch party. The production is looking for a genuine family dynamic to help create warm, authentic moments during the commercial.
Job Responsibilities
-
Appear together as a family in an outdoor neighborhood scene
-
Participate in natural interactions while watching a soccer game
-
Follow direction from the production team during filming
-
Help create a relatable family-friendly atmosphere
Requirements
-
Real family consisting of either:
-
One parent ages 30–45 with two children ages 7–14
-
Or two parents ages 30–45 with one child ages 7–14
-
Comfortable appearing together on camera
-
Must be able to work locally in the Suwanee, Georgia area
Compensation
-
$175 per person for the filming day
-
Paid on the day of filming by check
-
Opportunity to appear in a commercial campaign
Young Neighbors
Job Description
A commercial production is casting young adults to portray neighbors in a fun outdoor soccer watch-party scene. The project is seeking energetic individuals who can bring a lively and social atmosphere to the commercial.
Job Responsibilities
-
Portray young neighbors attending a community watch party
-
Participate in natural social interactions during filming
-
Follow direction from the production team on set
-
Help create an energetic neighborhood environment
Requirements
-
Men and women ages 18–25
-
Open to all ethnicities
-
Comfortable appearing in a social outdoor setting
-
Must be able to work locally in the Suwanee, Georgia area
Compensation
-
$175 for the filming day
-
Paid on the day of filming by check
-
Opportunity to appear in a commercial production