Go, Bull, Go

Opera is a tough sell for kids, but only if you make it a tough sell for them. Kids come without preconceptions, and they'll actually respond favorably to classical music — they'll respond favorably to most any music, in fact. But if you want to stack the deck in favor of the classics, take 'em to hear music that accompanies a story they know. Elise LaBarge melded The Story of Ferdinand with the music of Bizet's Carmen to create an opera designed to appeal to young audiences. Carmen and the Bull tells the story of a peaceable bull who doesn't want to gore matadors meeting with a flashy gypsy who loves a good time. Union Avenue Opera performs Carmen and the Bull at 2 p.m. today at Union Avenue Christian Church (733 North Union Boulevard; www.unionavenueopera.org). Tickets are $5 and available only at the door.
Sat., May 14, 2011