His Eminence Archbishop Elpidophoros of America, together with the Board of Trustees of the Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew Foundation, requests the pleasure of your company at “An Evening with Maria Callas,” a performance in support of the Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew Foundation by the world-renowned opera company Teatro Grattacielo. This gala production will be presented on Thursday, October 17, 2024 at the University Club of New York. The performance will take place during Archon Weekend, the annual gathering of the Archons of the Ecumenical Patriarchate in New York City.

Sponsors of this landmark cultural event include the Archons of the Ecumenical Patriarchate; Archon George and Lee Ann Anderson; Archon Joseph and Anna Kokolakis; Archon Markos and Sevasti Lagos; and Archon Michael and Meropi Neamonitakis. The evening will begin with a reception at 6PM, followed dinner and the performance at 7PM. The University Club of New York is located at 1 W. 54th Street in Manhattan.

Teatro Grattacielo states that its mission is to “promote the rich tradition of Italian style opera, revitalizing lesser-known works, supporting emerging singers and creating all-inclusive community programming. We strive to address the lack of exposure for hidden gems, introducing them to new audiences. Through artist advocacy programs and partnerships with established professionals and organizations, we provide invaluable opportunities for young artists to develop their craft. By fostering diversity, inclusivity and belonging we stride to cultivate new opera enthusiasts and to contribute to the growth and sustainability of the art form, aligning with the broader goals of our arts community.”

Maria Callas (Maria Anna Cecilia Sofia Kalogeropoulos) was a Greek-American soprano who was one of the most celebrated and significant opera singers of the twentieth century. Her awe-inspiring musical and dramatic abilities led to her being widely known as La Divina (“The Divine One”).

The Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew Foundation, a watershed initiative of the Order of Saint Andrew the Apostle, Archons of the Ecumenical Patriarchate, is dedicated to achieving economic independence for the Ecumenical Patriarchate, so that it may fulfill its apostolic mission in perpetuity.

FOUNDERS of the Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew Foundation have committed to ensuring the financial foundation of the Holy Mother Church, the Ecumenical Patriarchate of Constantinople, by pledging $100,000 over 10 years.

This will be an elegant event for FOUNDERS in good standing.

“In good standing” means your pledges are up-to-date. If you are uncertain about your pledge status, or, if you would like to become a FOUNDER in order to attend this event, please contact the Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew Foundation office at info@bartholomew.foundation.