Continuing the tradition of bringing the world of opera to students, Opera Mississippi is proud to present this year’s outreach program, available online for access both in the classroom and at home. Produced in partnership with the Southern Opera and Musical Theatre Company (SOMTC) at The University of Southern Mississippi, Billy Goats Gruff debuted March 12, 2021 on Opera Mississippi’s website, msopera.org. This fun, 30-minute children’s opera allows audiences the opportunity to watch a classic fairytale story come alive, with an available version incorporating the use of American Sign Language for the hearing impaired, it also uses puppets to teach a powerful lesson.
“Elementary school teachers, school administrative leadership, and especially parents should consider this opportunity in letting their students and children see and hear this amusing story,” said Jay Dean, Artistic Director of Opera Mississippi. “This opera, which has been graciously sponsored by the Robert M. Hearin Foundation, allows young children the opportunity to hear both classic tunes known around the world as well as learning a powerful lesson about bullying.”
Harlan Mapp, the production’s director and producer, is hopeful that because this year’s opera is virtual, it can reach even more students than in years past. “These student outreach productions are very important, not only to help students hear this worldly music, but also to learn these important lessons that stay with us for the rest of our lives” said Mapp.
Billy Goats Gruff is available for viewing now at operams.org.
For more information on this concert and the rest of the Opera Mississippi season, visit operams.org or call 601.960.2300