Opera Theatre of St. Louis has something to sing about—a new general director, Andrew Jorgensen. He takes the helm July 2, having served most recently as interim executive director for the Washington National Opera at the Kennedy Center. Jorgensen succeeds Timothy O’Leary, who has held the post since 2008.
On World Autism Day, it was announced that the new St. Louis Aquarium at Union Station, opening in 2019, will be the first public aquarium designed for sensory inclusiveness. It will offer purpose-built space for visitors who need a quiet area; items like noise-cancelling headphones, fidget tools and verbal cue cards will be available; and staff will be trained to recognize sensory issues. The idea is to make the experience more comfortable for people with autism spectrum disorders, PTSD, dementia and other conditions.
Thanks to late alumna Mary Hoppe, the Saint Louis University School of Nursing has received its largest gift ever—$8.4 million! It’s also one of the largest donations received by the university as a whole. The funds will be used to create the Dr. and Mrs. Robert C. Hoppe Endowed Scholarship to assist nursing students who have financial needs.
Get a gander at a Guinness World Record holder right here in the StL. The World Chess Hall of Fame is displaying the planet’s biggest chess piece, built locally by R.G. Ross Construction. The hall of fame also has three new exhibits, Painted Pieces: Art Chess from Purling London; The Staunton Standard: Evolution of the Modern Chess Set; and The Sinquefield Effect: The Resurgence of American Chess.
the main events
Enjoy a real Bourbon Street experience at Highway 61 Roadhouse’s 9th annual Crawfish & Shrimp Boil, starting at 1 p.m. May 5. Zydeco Crawdaddies will perform from 6 to 10 p.m.
One of St. Louis County Library’s most popular events, Suspense Night: An Evening of Thrills and Chills with Five Renowned Mystery Writers, takes place at 7 p.m. May 10 at library headquarters, 1640 S. Lindbergh Blvd. Refreshments are provided.
Early risers can watch Meghan and Harry tie the knot at The Novel Neighbor in Webster Groves! The store’s Royal Wedding Watch Party starts at 6 a.m. May 19 and includes breakfast, tea, coffee and cocktails. Register at thenovelneighbor.com.
