Keeneland Partners with OperaLex for Event

Keeneland and OperaLex, formerly the Lexington Opera Society, announced that the Keeneland sales pavilion will be the site of this year's Encore!, the organization's annual fund-raising event.

With a "The Year of the Horse" theme, the event will be held May 31 in Lexington.

Food, wine, and spirits tastings will accompany performances by the University of Kentucky's Opera Theatre productions, according to a Keeneland press release.

"This Keeneland sponsorship offers our supporters the opportunity to enjoy our Encore! event in this elegant venue each spring," Dr. Ray Garman, president of OperaLex, said in a release.

"We are thrilled to perform in such a gorgeous place for this fabulous annual event," said Dr. Everett McCorvey, director of UKOT. "The brightest stars of the equine world appear here, and our students love performing in this beautiful setting."

Bill Thomason, president and CEO of Keeneland, added, "Keeneland enjoys hosting UKOT performances throughout the year, and we're delighted to offer our support for this exceptional OperaLex event."

A new feature of Encore! will be electronic bidding for silent auction items. Ryan Mahan, Keeneland's director of auctioneers, will also conduct a live auction that will be followed by a musical finale.

Patron's Tables, offering select wine and food pairings, sommelier-level service and gift amenities, are available for $2,000 for eight people and $1,000 for four. Patron's tables and other sponsorship opportunities are available by contacting Susan Mullineaux at 859-269-7178.

Individual tickets are available for $125 on the OperaLex website at www.operalex.org.