Night with the OperaNight with the Opera

Night With The Opera


Opera Grand Rapids invites you to join us for Night with the Opera: Butterfly Gardens

Our signature annual fundraising gala held this year in the breathtaking setting of the Frederick Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park in the Huizenga Ballroom. Guests will be immersed in the beauty of the renowned butterfly sanctuary, where vibrant wings flutter among lush gardens, creating an evening of elegance, artistry, and wonder.

This year, the gala celebrates Japanese culture in conjunction with OGR’s production of Madame Butterfly, a timeless opera set in Nagasaki that explores themes of love, honor, and emotion. Guests will experience curated cultural elements throughout the evening, including artful décor, music, and culinary offerings inspired by Japan, creating a rich and immersive experience.


Gala Tickets

Tickets $150
Formal attire


Or call the Box Office: 616.451.2741

A ticket to the event includes dinner, an open bar, and entertainment. The evening will also feature a short program highlighting our collegiate award winners, announcement of the 2026/27 season, and a paddle raise to support OGR’s productions and education programs.Guests will have private access to the Butterfly Exhibit during cocktail hour.

For attire inspiration, see our look book.


Evening Schedule

  • 6:30 pm Cocktail hour
    Japanese music from Dan Ewart & Jiwon Chun
    Private access to the Butterfly Exhibit
  • 7:30 pm Dinner
  • 8:00 pm Betty Van Andel Scholarship presentation and VanderLaan Prize winner performance
  • 9:00 pm Paddle Raise

Menu

Appetizers

Sushi Bar
Yellowtail Roll | Salmon Roll | California Roll
Tamari | Pickled Ginger | Wasabi
Contains: Soy, Sesame, Milk, Fish

First Course

Mizuna & Watercress Salad
Sesame-Ginger Vinaigrette | Lotus Root Chip
Pickled Mushroom | Edamame| Shallot
Contains: Soy, Sesame

Entree Course

Green Miso Grilled Chicken Breast
Black Garlic Soy-Glazed Mushroom | Gomae | Yuzu Kosho
Contains: Soy, Sesame, Fish, Shellfish

Vegan Option

Miso Glazed Lion’s Mane Mushroom
Salsa Verde | Spiced Wilted Greens | Chickpea Panisse
Contains: Sesame

Dessert Course

Yuzu & Matcha Tart
Meringue | Kumquat | Carmelized Honey
Contains: Wheat, Milk, Egg, Tree Nut, Soy


Thank you to our sponsors!

David and Carol Van Andel Family FoundationWin and Kyle IrwinMiller Johnson AttorneysVarnumJandernoa FoundationMcGraw ConstructionNorthern TrustBill and Cecile FehsenfeldDiane St. ClaireJohn HuntingCusterMcShane & BowiePeggy Barber – Bold Partner PropertiesWallson and Rebecca KnackAnonymousHolland Litho