Maecenas XLII Saturday, May 1, 2027
Monterey Bay Fish Grotto
1411 Grandview Ave
Save the Date for 2027!
On Saturday, May 16, 2026, we gathered for Maecenas XLI, an evening of music, dinner, dancing, and community. But this year is especially meaningful: we’ll be honoring Christopher Hahn, whose remarkable vision and leadership have shaped Pittsburgh Opera for over two decades.
Emceed by KDKA host Daisy Jade, this night was more than a gala; it was a heartfelt celebration of Christopher and the legacy of opera in Pittsburgh. Resident Artist Alumni Alex Loutsion and Emily Richter returned to our stage for one night only. They were joined by legendary American mezzo-soprano Denyce Graves, who presented the evening's awards.
Contact Torrance Gricks, Manager of Corporate Development & Event Fundraising for more information.
Dancing at the Celestial Celebration--Maecenas XXXIX (photo credit: David Bachman)
Dancing at the Celestial Celebration--Maecenas XXXIX (photo credit: David Bachman)
New Guard dining at the Celestial Celebration--Maecenas XXXIX (photo credit: David Bachman)
Resident Artist performances at the Celestial Celebration--Maecenas XXXIX (photo credit: David Bachman)
Celestial Celebration--Maecenas XXXIX (photo credit: David Bachman)
The event’s namesake, Gaius Maecenas, was friend to the first Emperor of Rome, Caesar Augustus, and a celebrated patron to such artists of his time as Horace and Virgil. Today his name is synonymous with “patron of the arts.” Pittsburgh Opera’s Maecenas Award is bestowed upon benefactors whose exceptional dedication to our work ensures that live opera can thrive in Pittsburgh.
Previous award honorees include:
Lifetime Achievement Award
Nadine E. Bognar
Dr. Jared L. Cohon
Governor Tom Corbett
First Lady Susan Corbett
Arthur “Jack” Kerr
Robert Nutting
Janet Sarbaugh
Vincent Sarni
Tom Wolf, Governor of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
Donald Cardinal Wuerl
Maecenas Award
François J. Bitz
Electra and James R. Agras
Michele and Pat Atkins
Nadine E. Bognar
Carol R. Brown
Tony Bucci
Kathleen Casey Craig
Daya
Michele Fabrizi
Mary Louise Gailliot and the late Henry J. Gailliot
Named for Gaius Maecenas, the wealthy Roman statesman and cultural patron, the Maecenas gala has developed a reputation for a spectacular environment and great entertainment. SEEN hails it as “one of the best black-tie galas in town” and by the Tribune-Review as one of Pittsburgh’s top parties of the year. Each year, this event is a critical aspect of Pittsburgh Opera’s fundraising efforts to keep music alive in Pittsburgh and the surrounding areas.
Annually, Maecenas galas celebrate a successful season for Pittsburgh Opera and recognize individuals who have contributed significantly to the performing arts in Pittsburgh or within their respective fields. Each year, a few worthy recipients receive Awards from Pittsburgh Opera.
