The Pied Piper of Hamelin is a delightful musical adaptation of the classic fairy tale with music and libretto by the dean of children’s Opera, Seymour Barab. The Pied Piper is hired by the Mayor of Hamelin to rid the town of its rats. The piper does what he's asked, but is denied the payment promised him; in revenge, he lures all of Hamelin's children out of town until the Mayor of Hamelin “pays the piper.” After the piper is paid the children are returned to their families and joy and peace are restored to Hamelin. This story allows children to learn the consequences of breaking promises. This show is 45 minutes in length and requires student participation in non-speaking roles.

EXTENDED THROUGH 2009
Let Freedom Ring!

A history of Black Americans and the African-American experience as told through song, dance and spoken word from slavery to hip-hop, bringing the rich legacy of their culture and contributions to life in a celebration of the on-going struggle for freedom of body, mind and soul.

Building upon the prose and poetry of literary and civil rights greats such as Martin Luther King, Langston Hughes, Nikki Giovanni, Ossie Davis, Maya Angelou, Malcolm X and others, Let Freedom Ring! also features a wide variety of musical styles including gospel, jazz, classical, ragtime, slave songs, spirituals, rhythm & blues, and freedom songs.

The spirit of Black Americans, that has woven itself into every aspect of American Life throughout the generations, as depicted in Let Freedom Ring! will entertain and enlighten audiences of all ages and take them on an uplifting and inspiring journey into the quest for freedom.

EXTENDED THROUGH DECEMBER 2008
Nanabush

Michigan Opera Theatre’s Tour Programs announce a new production for the 2006-2007 season. It introduces young audiences to Great Lakes Indian stories based on the many adventures of the popular character, Nanabush, who was sent to teach his people about the earth and all its beauty. His stories explain why rabbits have long ears, the origin of the seasons, the birth of agriculture, the virtues of kindness and truth, and the obligation to provide for family & community.

Bring the excitement of Nanabush to your school and let young people in grades K-6 discover opera and discover Michigan!

The Night Harry Stopped Smoking

by Ross Dabrush and John Davies

Harry McGlouglin, a heavy smoker, falls asleep only to find that he has been taken to a strange place—his lungs. Guided by two nerve cells, Harry discovers how smoking is effecting his heart and lungs and damaging his body. This crucial look at Harry's health makes him decide to quit smoking.

* For grades 1-5

Other offerings...

The American Songbook

A dynamic cabaret-style revue of the most beautiful music from Broadway's greatest composers like George Gershwin, Jerome Kern, Rogers and Hammerstein, Lerner and Loewe, Andrew Lloyd-Webber, and more.

MOT Sampler

A variety sampler for audiences of all ages. An entertaining and educational revue of hits from Grand Opera, Operetta, and Musical Theatre.

Workshops

The Department of Community Programs offers myriad workshops for students and teachers alike. We can customize a program to suit your individual needs.

A sample of our workshops include:

Create and Perform (formerly Create Opera!) Improvisational curriculum in music, movement, acting, and language, culminating in a performance.

Conduct & Create! An assembly program which teaches conducting signals and culminates in performance pieces using either "body percussion," vocal and mouth sounds, or traditional instruments.

Lectures. On Opera, Michigan Opera Theatre, Detroit Opera House, Careers in the Arts—tailored to your needs.

Vocal Health. A comprehensive vocal workshop for aspiring speakers or singers who have an interest in vocal health, relaxation techniques, and vocal pedagogy.