Opera for Kids

Opera for kids? "I don't even inflict that on myself," you might say. But read on, you might not only find something educational for your kids, but entertaining for them- and you- as well. Here's a brief introduction to some works, operas, operettas and other classical pieces with kid appeal:

The Magic Flute Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart Fantastical creatures, magical gifts and one of the greatest melodic lines in musical history create an experience no one should miss. For a synopsis of the plot and other fascinating facts about opera, visit the Arizona Opera's site at http://www.azopera.com/96season/mf_syn.p...

Hansel and Gretel Englebert Humperdink Approaching Mozart in melodic perfection is Humperdink's "When at Night I Go To Sleep" (English lyrics), a piece currently performed by artists like Charlotte Church. Several excellent versions of this work featuring puppets are available on video. A favorite is Hansel and Gretel: An Opera Fantasy with stop-motion puppetry, starring Anna Russell as The Witch.

The Pirates of Penzance Gilbert and Sullivan What child doesn't like swashbuckling heroes? What goes better with a pirate hook, hat and eyepatch than the lyrics to "I am the Pirate King?" For all the information you ever wanted to know about this show, including MIDI files for ALL the music, see http://math-cs.idbsu.edu/gas/pirates/htm...

Peter and the Wolf Sergei Prokofiev Although not an opera, I couldn't resist including this work because it is a great introduction to the instruments of the orchestra. The use of leitmotiv lays the foundation to help children enjoy other musical forms later in life.

Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice Now a Broadway sensation, Joseph was originally written as a cantata for a school boys' choir. It's musical themes are echoed in other Andrew Lloyd Weber works, especially Jesus Christ Superstar, and the incisive, often hilarious Tim Rice lyrics have only been improved by the additions of new songs over the years. Watch Donny Osmond in the title role on PBS' video, or see the show live in your community.

http://www.reallyuseful.com/ The production company's website is packed with information and photos of the show.

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