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March 14.2025
3 Minutes Read

Blind Opera Singer Laurie Rubin to Inspire at Vision Beyond Sight Gala

Blind opera singer Laurie Rubin confidently stands in elegant blue dress.

Blind Opera Singer Laurie Rubin to Inspire at Vision Beyond Sight Gala

Laurie Rubin, a Southern California native and distinguished opera performer, is set to grace the stage at the 8th Annual Vision Beyond Sight Gala on March 27, bringing a powerful message of resilience and hope to the Orange County community. Diagnosed with Leber congenital amaurosis, a rare genetic condition that leads to significant vision loss, Rubin's story is one of defiance against limitations and a testament to the triumph of the human spirit.

The Struggles and Triumphs of Laurie Rubin

Laurie Rubin's journey began at just three months old when she faced a diagnosis that would define much of her early life. Despite the challenges of growing up without sight, Rubin's family nurtured her environment, ensuring she felt included and empowered. Yet, societal pressures often made her feel the need to continuously prove her worth. "I felt like a normal kid, but the world seemed different," Rubin recalled. This struggle with self-identity fueled her drive to succeed. Rubin not only graduated from the prestigious Oberlin Conservatory and Yale School of Music but also went on to become an internationally recognized mezzo-soprano.

From Isolation to International Acclaim

Rubin transformed her adversity into a source of inspiration through her memoir, Do You Dream in Color?: Insights from a Girl Without Sight, chronicling her evolution from feeling isolated to embracing her identity as a successful artist. This story resonates well beyond the opera stage, touching on themes of perseverance and self-acceptance that are universally relatable.

Connecting with the Community

Currently based in Hawaii, Rubin and her partner Jenny Taira run Ohana Arts, a non-profit arts education organization aimed at cultivating the creative talents of youth. "We started Ohana Arts to give back the wonderful experiences we had in performing arts programs," Rubin explained.

Rubin's connection with Beyond Blindness, the nonprofit spearheading the gala, was serendipitous; it allowed her to align her artistic mission with an organization dedicated to empowering children with visual impairments. "Beyond Blindness embodies values I believe in, especially their commitment to building independence and providing resources," she said. Angie Rowe, CEO of Beyond Blindness, echoed this sentiment, stating, "Laurie's journey exemplifies the resilience we wish to inspire in every child. She shows that with the right support, anything is possible."

What to Expect at the Gala

The upcoming gala promises an evening filled with inspiring performances, including covers of popular songs and classic opera pieces, alongside Rubin’s original work, The Girl I Am. The event aims to raise awareness and funds for children with visual impairments through engaging activities like dining experiences in the dark, auctions, and alumni testimonials.

Hope and Inspiration: Going Beyond the Stage

Rubin emphasizes the importance of sharing her story with others facing similar challenges. "If I can help someone understand that their vision impairment does not have to define their life, then I have done my job," she said. Her commitment to uplifting others shines through her ongoing initiatives, including a book club on Zoom that aims to foster conversations about resilience and community.

Imagine the Impact of Your Support

The Vision Beyond Sight Gala is not just a celebration; it’s a powerful reminder of community strength and support. Attending the gala or contributing to Beyond Blindness can directly help empower children and families navigating the challenges of visual impairments. Each ticket sold truly translates into resources for the next generation, ensuring brighter beginnings for all.

Laurie Rubin's performance is not just an event to attend; it’s an invitation to participate in a movement cultivating optimism and perseverance in the face of adversity. To buy tickets and support efforts in empowering visually impaired children, visit Beyond Blindness online.

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