Sir Patrick Stewart joins Lyric Opera-Second City mash-up

Sir Patrick Stewart is quite the cut-up lately. In his most famous role, that of Captain Jean-Luc Picard on Star Trek: The Next Generation, he wasn’t exactly at his goofiest. Ditto the “X-Men” flicks. But over the years this distinguished British thespian has let his hair down considerably (and metaphorically–he’s bald) for roles on such wacky animated yukfests as “Family Guy” and “American Dad.” And just a couple of months ago he cranked up the looniness for an appearance on “The Daily Show with Jon Stewart.” (http://tinyurl.com/9n25gug)

So it comes as no surprise that Stewart, 72, has agreed to join international opera star Renee Fleming in co-hosting “The Second City Guide to the Opera” on January 5. A joint effort of Lyric Opera of Chicago (where Fleming is creative consultant) and Chicago’s venerable comedy bastion Second City, it was reportedly dreamed up by Fleming after she attended a Second City performance on Wells Street. Besides featuring opera-themed comedic sketches (some including the evening’s luminous co-emcees), the unlikely mash-up will showcase Fleming’s golden pipes as she sings to live accompaniment.

The Second City Guide to the Opera

January 5, 2013

Civic Opera House

20 N. Wacker

312-332-2244

http://tinyurl.com/cpt83x4