REPORTS TO: Senior Director of Communications
STATUS: Full-time, exempt
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.
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.
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.
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
Boston Casting, Inc. is seeking male performers with previous mascot experience for an upcoming video project in Boston, Massachusetts. The production is specifically looking for performers between 5’3″ and 5’7″ who are comfortable working inside a mascot costume and can bring energy, movement, and character to a performance. Applicants should be prepared to demonstrate their previous mascot experience and ability to perform physically while following production direction.
Job Responsibilities
- Perform as a mascot character for the video project.
- Use expressive physical movement to bring the character to life.
- Work comfortably while wearing a mascot costume.
- Follow creative and production direction during filming.
Requirements
- Male performers.
- Height: 5’3″–5’7″.
- Previous mascot performance experience required.
- Submit a clear, recent photo.
- Submit a 30-second video discussing your mascot experience.
Compensation
$1,000.
Senoia Open Casting Call – Background Talent
Job Description
A Georgia production is holding an open casting call for background talent interested in upcoming filming opportunities in Senoia, Newnan, Peachtree City, Hampton, and surrounding areas. Casting is open to performers of all ethnicities, with multiple opportunities expected throughout the production period. Specific roles have not yet been announced, making this an opportunity for local talent interested in future background acting work.
Job Responsibilities
- Work as background talent in upcoming film or television scenes.
- Portray various roles based on production needs.
- Follow direction from assistant directors and the production team.
- Maintain professionalism and continuity during filming.
- Be available for potential work across multiple production dates.
Requirements
- Open to all ethnicities.
- Must be willing to work in Senoia, Newnan, Peachtree City, Hampton, or surrounding Georgia areas.
- Comfortable working as background talent on a professional production.
- Reliable and able to follow on-set direction.
- Flexible availability for potential filming opportunities.
Compensation
- $182 for 12 hours per day.
Job Description
Halo Agency is expanding its talent representation across the Southeast and is seeking kids, teens, adults, and senior adults interested in joining its roster. Talent is being considered for professional opportunities across TV commercials, film productions, lifestyle photoshoots, and brand advertisements. The agency is currently seeking new talent in Savannah, Hilton Head, Charleston, Charlotte, Jacksonville, Orlando, and Atlanta.
Job Responsibilities
- Participate in auditions, self-tapes, and potential bookings.
- Work on film, commercial, lifestyle, and advertising projects.
- Follow production and agency direction when booked.
- Maintain professional communication with the agency.
Requirements
- Open to kids, teens, adults, and senior adults.
- Submit a current headshot and self-tape for consideration.
- Open to opportunities in TV, film, photoshoots, and brand advertising.
Compensation
Unpaid.
Chicago Fire – Female Livecast Body Model
Job Description
“Chicago Fire” is seeking a female livecast model for a specialized full-body molding session in Chicago. The selected model will have a skin-safe mixture and plaster bandage applied to the body to create a lifecast, with the head and body casts completed separately. This role requires someone who can remain comfortable and still throughout the molding process.
Job Responsibilities
- Serve as a livecast model for a professional television production.
- Participate in separate head and full-body casting sessions.
- Remain still while skin-safe molding materials and plaster bandages are applied.
- Follow instructions from the makeup, effects, and production teams.
- Remain available for most of the day as required.
Requirements
- Female talent in her 20s.
- Height approximately 5’3″–5’8″.
- Thin to medium build.
- Must be comfortable with a full-body lifecasting process.
- Must not be claustrophobic.
- Must be able to work as a local hire in Chicago, the surrounding suburbs, or states bordering Illinois.
Compensation
- $300 for 8 hours.
- Time-and-a-half after 8 hours.
Chicago Fire – Hospital Background Actors
Job Description
“Chicago Fire” is seeking male background actors to portray hospital staff and hospital visitors in upcoming scenes filming in Chicago. Casting is open to men in their 20s–40s of all ethnicities who can bring a natural, professional presence to a busy hospital setting. Talent must be local to Chicago, the surrounding suburbs, or nearby states bordering Illinois.
Job Responsibilities
- Portray hospital staff, visitors, or other hospital background roles.
- Perform natural background action during scripted television scenes.
- Follow direction from assistant directors and the production team.
- Maintain continuity and professionalism throughout filming.
- Help create a realistic hospital environment for the TV production.
Requirements
- Male talent in their 20s–40s.
- All ethnicities are encouraged to apply.
- No visible arm or hand tattoos.
- Must be local to Chicago, surrounding suburbs, or states bordering Illinois.
- Comfortable working as background talent in hospital scenes.
- Reliable and able to follow on-set direction.
Compensation
- Compensation will be discussed with selected talent.
Job Description
JS Casting is seeking professional and self-taught bakers for an upcoming baking competition focused on creativity, craftsmanship, and baking from scratch. The production is especially interested in bakers who take pride in using fresh ingredients and creating homemade components rather than relying on store-bought alternatives. Ideal participants may make their own jams, churn their own butter, or create ingredients such as homemade sprinkles and marshmallows.
Job Responsibilities
- Participate as a baker in the competition.
- Prepare creative baked goods using from-scratch techniques.
- Showcase personal baking skills, techniques, and creativity.
- Follow production and competition guidelines.
Requirements
- Open to professional and self-taught bakers.
- Must be passionate about baking from scratch.
- Strong preference for bakers who create homemade ingredients and components.
- Must be comfortable showcasing baking abilities in a competition setting.
Compensation
Not specified.
Untitled Rodeo Project – SFX Makeup Stand-In
Job Description
A streaming service series is seeking a male stand-in for an SFX makeup test in the Atlanta, Georgia area. The production is looking for an experienced or aspiring stand-in who closely matches the required physical characteristics and can work as a local hire near Fairburn. Previous stand-in experience is helpful but not required.
Job Responsibilities
- Work as a stand-in during a special effects makeup test.
- Assist the production team with lighting, positioning, and makeup testing as needed.
- Maintain accurate marks and positioning throughout the session.
- Follow direction from the SFX makeup and production teams.
- Remain professional and available for the full work commitment.
Requirements
- Hispanic male.
- Height approximately 5’11″–6’1″.
- Weight approximately 220–240 lbs.
- No facial hair.
- Must closely match the required complexion and physical appearance.
- Previous stand-in experience is helpful but not required.
- Must be within reasonable self-driving distance of Fairburn, Georgia.
Compensation
- $175 for 12 hours guaranteed.
- Overtime after 12 hours, if applicable.
Job Description
Mastersons Magic is gauging interest from female multidisciplinary performers for potential future touring opportunities with a professional illusion show. The production is building a list of performers who may be interested in a potential 3–6 month touring contract, with performances taking place both on land and at sea. The opportunity is suited to women with strong stage presence and performance skills in areas such as dance, aerial arts, circus, theatre, acting, variety entertainment, or other specialty disciplines.
Job Responsibilities
- Perform as part of a professional touring illusion production.
- Participate in theatrical illusions, audience-focused performances, and rehearsals.
- Bring individual performance skills and strong stage presence to the show.
- Work collaboratively with the production team and follow performance direction.
- Travel as required for potential U.S. and international engagements.
Requirements
- Female performers.
- Strong stage presence, confidence, charisma, and audience connection.
- Performance skills in dance, aerial, circus, theatre, acting, variety arts, or another specialty are encouraged.
- Professional experience in magic, theatre, dance, circus, touring productions, or live entertainment is a plus.
- Must be comfortable working with theatrical illusions.
- Previous magician’s assistant experience is not required.
Compensation
Not specified. Potential contract terms and additional details will be discussed as opportunities develop.
911: Nashville – Construction Background Talent
Job Description
The television series “911: Nashville” is seeking special ability background talent with real-world construction experience for filming in Nashville, Tennessee. This non-union opportunity is open to all genders ages 25–60, with particular interest in professionals experienced in road construction or asphalt work. Selected talent will use their practical industry knowledge to help create authentic construction scenes on camera.
Job Responsibilities
- Perform as special ability background talent in construction-related TV scenes.
- Use real construction knowledge and experience to create realistic on-set action.
- Follow direction from the production team throughout filming.
- Perform construction-related movements or activities as requested.
- Remain available and professional for an extended filming day.
Requirements
- All genders, ages 25–60.
- Must have real construction experience.
- Road construction or asphalt experience is strongly preferred.
- Comfortable using professional construction knowledge on camera.
- Must be available for a potentially 12+ hour filming commitment.
- Must work as a local hire in Nashville, Tennessee, or surrounding areas.
Compensation
- $175 for 8 hours.
- Time-and-a-half after 8 hours.
Job Description
A paid entertainment project in Atlanta, Georgia is seeking a Black actress/model to appear in a project featuring artist Sammie. The production is looking for someone with a strong on-camera presence who can combine modeling ability with confident acting skills. The selected talent should be comfortable performing naturally on camera and following creative direction. Previous acting experience is specifically requested, making this opportunity best suited to performers who can demonstrate their abilities through an acting reel and recent photos.
Job Responsibilities
- Perform on camera as directed for the artist project.
- Bring confident acting and modeling presence to the production.
- Follow creative direction and collaborate professionally on set.
- Deliver a natural and engaging performance.
Requirements
- Black female talent.
- Must be under 5’4″.
- Acting experience or demonstrated acting ability required.
- Must provide 3 photos, phone number, and an acting reel.
Compensation
Paid.
Job Description
AE Talent Agency is seeking actresses currently looking for agency representation who fit a supporting Wife/Mother role for submission to an upcoming SAG-AFTRA project. The character is Clark’s wife and the mother of their two daughters, Maisie and Bella. She is portrayed as smart, warm, funny, and grounded, balancing a long marriage with the mildly chaotic rhythm of raising a family. She knows her husband well, understands his habits, and can gently cut through his charm. The role calls for an actress who can bring warmth, humor, maturity, and a natural family dynamic to the character.
Job Responsibilities
- Portray the supporting Wife/Mother character with warmth, humor, and authenticity.
- Bring a grounded and believable family dynamic to scenes.
- Take direction and collaborate professionally with the production team.
- Deliver a natural performance appropriate for a SAG-AFTRA production.
Requirements
- Woman, playing age 35–45.
- Ethnic appearance: Ethnically Ambiguous, White, East Asian, Pacific Islander, or Southeast Asian.
- Must fit the listed age range and ethnic appearance.
- Currently seeking acting agency representation.
Compensation
SAG-AFTRA Scale.
Job Description
An upcoming grounded, character-driven short film filming in Birmingham, Alabama, is casting actors for multiple lead, supporting, featured, and background roles. Written and directed by Miea Logan, the project explores identity, choices, consequences, and the moments that force people to confront who they really are. Opportunities are available for experienced and emerging actors, with roles ranging from a sharp and observant lead character to supporting personalities and featured character roles.
Job Responsibilities
- Portray the assigned character with an authentic, grounded performance.
- Collaborate with the director and production team.
- Follow creative direction and contribute to character-driven scenes.
- Maintain professionalism throughout production.
Requirements
- Ava – Lead: Black female, early to mid-20s; sharp, guarded, observant, with dry humor and strong emotional depth.
- Benny – Supporting: Black male, 30s–40s; confident, unconventional, and quietly commanding.
- Sal – Supporting: Male, 40s–60s; corner-store owner who is direct, observant, and quietly caring.
- Jay – Supporting: Black male, early to mid-20s; charming, vulnerable, with strong emotional presence.
- White Boy Todd – Supporting: White male, 20s–30s; well put together, talkative, and extremely confident.
- Key – Featured: Male, 20s–40s; minimal dialogue with a strong screen presence.
- Facilitator – Supporting: Female, 40s–60s; warm, patient, and emotionally grounded.
- Junkie – Featured: Male, 30s–40s; weathered and impatient, with familiarity with Ava; strong character performance required.
- Workshop Participants / Background: Ages 18+, all ethnicities; roles include workshop participants, customers, pedestrians, and other background performers.
Compensation
Not specified.
