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 Spanish and Portugese South America with music, dancing, and revelry.

Carnaval! is a concert celebrating music and dance from South America, Spain, and Portugal—from operatic favorites to cabaret, musical theatre, salsa, tango, and more. Accompanied by the beauty of the University of Illinois Symphony Orchestra 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 before following 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.

Tuesday, February 21, 2023

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