Houston Grand Operaยs ยOpera to Go!ย Company is presenting a 45-minute mini-opera version of Sleeping Beauty for kids today at the Miller Outdoor Theatre ย sung in English, of course. (Introducing children to opera and classical music is no simple task, but Tchaikovsky, whose music formed the merry cores of Disneyยs Fantasia and Sleeping Beauty, is a good composer with whom to start.)
This version of Sleeping Beauty has done away with sharp spinning wheels and sword fights, and recast the tale in a Russian kingdom. The king has offended the Winter Fairy by declaring that he wants eternal spring (a tall order in Russia). The Winter Fairy retaliates, saying that if his daughter, Anna, ever leaves the kingdom, sheยll freeze. Throw in some animals, a handsome prince and Tchaikovskyยs original ballet score, and lesson No. 1 is complete. 11 a.m. Monday through Friday, this week only. 100 Concert Drive, Hermann Park. For information, call 281ย373ย3386 or visit www.milleroutdoortheatre.com. Free.
May 5-9, 11 a.m., 2008
This article appears in May 1-7, 2008.