The program is a concert of various opera highlights with stage direction by Mark Lamos, a distinguished actor and theater director with a long history of collaboration with City Opera. Company music director George Manahan will conduct the New York City Opera Orchestra; joining him will be Julius Rudel, the company's legendary former artistic and general director, who is making his first appearance on the City Opera podium in 25 years.

Among the company's current artists on the program this evening are Elizabeth Futral, Vivica Genaux, Beth Clayton, David Walker, Brian Mulligan, James Valenti and Daniel Mobbs. Joining them are several distinguished City Opera alumni, among them Lauren Flanigan, Vinson Cole and Samuel Ramey, along with musical theater star Judy Kaye (who has herself performed with the company). The evening will be hosted by soprano Carol Vaness, one of a number of well-known American singers who began their careers at City Opera.

Along with a video montage highlighting the company's history, there will be a special video message from Plšcido Domingo and Beverly Sills, both of whom made their early careers at New York City Opera.

Following the performance will be a reception with dinner and dancing, and the entire evening will honor the television journalist Paula Zahn, herself an accomplished amateur musician.

Details of New York City opera's 2006-07 season are available at www.nycopera.com.