What is the Young Patrons Circle? A new initiative, the Young Patrons Circle is a special membership group for individuals ages 21 to 39. Named after the Patrons Circle – HGO’s most dedicated group of supporters – the Young Patrons Circle represents a new giving level aimed at attracting young business leaders and opera lovers. It offers exclusive benefits similar to higher giving levels but at a reduced amount.
What are the benefits of membership in the Young Patrons Circle? Benefits of membership in the Young Patrons Circle include: • Invitation to a new, members-only dinner with members of the HGO Studio • Complimentary valet parking for the season • Masterson Green Room privileges • Two tickets to all open dress rehearsals • Invitation to an annual Patron Appreciation event (an exclusive guest artist recital) • Recognition in house program throughout the season • Invitations to special Opening Nights for Young Professional events, including pre-performance mixers • Complimentary season preview magazine • Complimentary Opera Guild membership • 10% discount on all Opera Guild Boutique purchases • Priority single ticket purchasing • Early admittance to Opera Guild Boutique sales How much is membership to the Young Patrons Circle? Annual dues are $1,500 for individuals or couples (that’s half the cost of membership in the Patrons Circle!). Membership may be paid in installments. Individual members may each bring one guest to Young Patrons Circle events. Proceeds support HGO’s Annual Fund. Providing world class opera - and many other programs for our community - at prices that are accessible is no small task. In fact, subscription and ticket sales only provide a third of what it takes to maintain our current operations. Our success depends on the generosity of our supporters. By joining the Young Patrons Circle, our young audience helps secure the future of HGO. Do you have to have a subscription to join the Young Patrons Circle? No, you do not have to have a subscription to join the Young Patrons Circle. We realize there may be circumstances which make attending the performances difficult and some find that becoming a member of the Young Patrons Circle is a great way to stay involved. There are opportunities for members to get together outside of the performances, including the exclusive dinner with HGO Studio artists and a guest artist recital. However, attending the performances will allow members of the Young Patrons Circle to take advantage of the full list of membership benefits, including Masterson Green Room privileges and valet parking. What is the difference between the Young Patrons Circle and Opening Nights for Young Professionals (O.N.)? The Young Patrons Circle was created in response to requests from young audience members who wanted a deeper affiliation with HGO at a giving level that was commensurate with their current means. It also provides an opportunity for our younger patrons to enjoy enhanced benefits and for HGO to develop the next generation of patrons. O.N. is a group of young professional subscribers who meet regularly to network and enjoy opening nights at HGO together. Do I have to be a member of O.N. to join the Young Patrons Circle? No, you do not have to be a member of O.N. to join the Young Patrons Circle – nor do you have to be a member of the Young Patrons Circle to join O.N. Who do I contact to learn more about the Young Patrons Circle or to join? If you have questions about the Young Patrons Circle or would like to join, please contact Ashley Parks, Individual Giving Manager, 713-546-0235, aparks@houstongrandopera.org
