An anti-bullying  operatic journey about finding self confidence for grades 4-9

Four singers (soprano, mezzo, tenor, baritone) and one pianist present a 50 minute participatory musical play that follows Andy in his journey to discover his metaphorical and physical voice.

Andy, a 9th grader, is troubled. He is picked on in class and has a hard time making friends. During a test, he gets in trouble for cheating when really it is the other kids that are copying off his paper. Too timid to stand up for himself, and afraid to confront the other kids at school, Andy returns home, dejected.

That evening he is visited by three spirits who help him discover how music and stories can open a world of expression and joy to him. First he meets Papageno from The Magic Flute, who demonstrates with the help of the magic ladies, how to overcome “the locked mouth”, then composer Giuseppi Verdi, who shows how creating music can unite people and give voice to the most under- recognized as we journey into Italian History and the Golden Age of Opera.

Finally, Andy encounters Cio-Cio-San from Madame Butterfly, and her plight. He is so moved by her story that he helps her realize that there is a better way to end her story. As he helps empower Butterfly, Andy finds his own glorious tenor voice, as well as the confidence needed to assert himself in his community.

During this delightful show, students are introduced to the origins and history of opera, entertained by arias and duets from grand opera repertoire, learn a bit about vocal technique and singing, and participate in singing ”Va Pensiero” from Verdi’s Nabucco. 

Script, Music, and Study Materials

available for this production.