Maecenas XXXII

Pittsburgh Opera to honor Robert Nutting, Claudia Pinza at Maecenas gala

May 10, 2016
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Pittsburgh Opera hosts "one of the most anticipated events of the year", the 32nd annual Maecenas gala, on Saturday, May 14th at Pittsburgh Opera headquarters. The gala is being chaired by Cindy and Murry Gerber.

The event’s namesake, Gaius Maecenas, was friend to the first Emperor of Rome, and a celebrated patron to such artists as Horace and Virgil. Today his name is synonymous with “patron of the arts.” Maecenas XXXII raises crucial funds which allow Pittsburgh Opera to keep live opera productions and educational programs financially accessible to all audiences, while training the next generation of great American singers.

For Maecenas XXXII, Pittsburgh Opera headquarters will be transformed for a night into the Crawford Grill, the legendary Hill District club from the golden age of jazz. Entertainment will include a special performance by Pittsburgh Opera Resident Artists, as well as the John Parker Band.

Pittsburgh Opera will be honoring two individuals who have made significant contributions to the Pittsburgh region and beyond.

• Robert Nutting, Chairman of the Board of the Pittsburgh Pirates, will be receiving a Lifetime Achievement Award for his work in the areas of philanthropy, newspaper journalism, the environment, and professional sports. Mr. Nutting’s role in Pirates Charities is particularly praiseworthy for its support of educational and fitness programs for youth.
• Opera legend Claudia Pinza will receive the Renaissance Award. Ms. Pinza has made extraordinary contributions to the world of opera both through her own artistry on the international opera stage and as a mentor to the opera stars of tomorrow.

Past honorees at previous years’ Maecenas galas include Teresa Heinz Kerry, General Norman Schwarzkopf and former Pennsylvania Governor Tom Corbett.

"We are very pleased to be honoring both Bob and Claudia,” says Pittsburgh Opera General Director Christopher Hahn. “Each of these extraordinary people has improved and strengthened Pittsburgh, making the city we love a better place to live, work and do business.”

As Maecenas XXXII closes Pittsburgh Opera's 77th season, we turn our attention to next year when opera and baseball merge to tell a compelling story of human rights through one man’s life in the Negro Leagues as we present the world premiere of The Summer King - The Josh Gibson Story. Learn more about The Summer King.