LEARNING AND ENRICHMENT PROGRAMS FOR STUDENTS AND ADULTS
COMMUNICATE. COLLABORATE.
CREATE.
Greetings! Cincinnati Opera is excited to enliven our community by creating opportunities for all to enjoy positive and meaningful experiences with opera.
Whether you are a school entity searching for programming that enhances curriculum and true value-add to the instructional process or a community collaborator seeking to invite the arts into your space, our aim is to be a powerful partner that listens and learns.
There is a vast amount of research that supports the benefits of arts programming in all facets of life, including reduced stress and higher levels of happiness. It is also proven that those involved in the arts are more likely to demonstrate patterns of civic engagement—and students demonstrate higher test scores, increased rates of graduation and college enrollment, and more!
Our programs are designed to be flexible to accommodate various settings and needs. Let our opera artists serenade you with Cincinnati Opera in Concert, or cozy up with a book and craft with Opera Storybook Hour. We have something for everyone.
We look forward to connecting with you soon!
Cincinnati Opera Community Engagement and Education
OPERA AND ORANGES
OPERA AND ORANGES
Ages 3–6
Get ready for a delightful tale and a nourishing treat! Tailored for children from 3 to 6, this program introduces an opera-themed storybook accompanied by a unique musical guest, engaging little ones with an interactive song. Our goal is to foster a passion for both literature and music, and we’ll also bring along a healthy and tasty snack. Cincinnati Opera proudly presents this initiative to bolster the positive influence that music exposure and nutritious eating have on a child’s overall development and well-being. Get ready for a deliciously enjoyable time!
OPERA
STORYBOOK HOUR
BEHIND THE VOICE
OPERA STORYBOOK HOUR
Ages 5-10
Embark on a captivating storytelling journey with Cincinnati Opera! Our engaging program breathes life into opera-inspired stories through the vibrant voices of our skilled artists who read, sing, and play enchanting opera music. Following the story, dive into an enjoyable craft activity. For example, drawing inspiration from The Magic Flute, your group will have the chance to create their very own Papageno and Papagena masks, representing a charming bird-catcher and his bride. Our instructor will also engage students with questions to make sure everyone grasps the story. This experience blends the magic of storytelling, the power of music, and the joy of crafting into an unforgettable adventure of creativity and fun.
BEHIND THE VOICE
Ages 10 and Up
Behind the Voice is all about enlightening, motivating, and educating groups about the various aspects of opera-related careers. In this program, a seasoned professional opera singer will take you on a journey through their own personal story and career path. They’ll delve into topics such as education, vocal training, networking, auditions, and performances. Along with their story, the artist will treat students to a selection of musical pieces. The experience will wrap up with a Q&A session. Expect to hear from singers representing diverse cultural backgrounds. This compelling program seeks to inspire and unveil the many paths of career development.
* Classes scheduled based on artists’ availability.
MASTERCLASS
“Choose
a job you love and you will never have to work a day in your life.” -Anonymous
MASTERCLASS
All Ages
Imagine stepping into a world where the magic of opera comes to life right before your eyes! At a Cincinnati Opera masterclass, you will have the rare opportunity to learn from a seasoned opera artist in an immersive and interactive setting. The artist shares invaluable insights on vocal techniques, stage presence, and the art of storytelling through music, while also providing personalized feedback to young, aspiring performers. This transformative experience not only hones their musical skills but also boosts their confidence, creativity, and passion for the arts, leaving a lasting impact that resonates both on and off the stage.
* Also inquire about exploring career opportunities in arts administration and production. 5
STAGEBOUND!
All Ages
Experience the magic of “Stagebound!”—a captivating 30-minute touring show that immerses you in the world of opera in the comfort of your own space. Follow professional singers through narration and song as they take you on a mesmerizing journey from auditions and rehearsals to a stunning costumed finale. After the performance, engage with the cast in a lively discussion. “Stagebound!” is perfect for introducing opera to new audiences or reigniting passion for this timeless art form.
OPERA & WELLNESS
CINCINNATI OPERA IN CONCERT
OPERA & YOGA
All Ages
Join us for a journey of relaxation and reflection, where yoga and opera converge to nurture your inner peace. Our experienced instructors will lead you through a unique and serene group yoga session, geared toward all levels of expertise. Between yoga intervals, Cincinnati Opera artists will serenade you with the soothing melodies of opera music, renowned for its calming and emotive qualities. This program is sure to leave you feeling relaxed and refreshed.
MUSIC IN MOTION
All Ages
Experience the transformative power of music and motion with Cincinnati Opera’s innovative series. Led by opera and yoga professionals, each session combines group singing and chair yoga, complemented by a captivating opera performance. Sing along to beloved Broadway classics and modern hits and move your body in this 45-minute class designed to enhance cognitive and physical well-being.
CINCINNATI OPERA IN CONCERT
All Ages
Cincinnati Opera is bringing the magic of music to your stage! This concert series is incredibly flexible and can be customized to suit your audience’s specific preferences. Whether you crave beloved opera classics or prefer a captivating blend of Broadway, jazz, and other genres, Cincinnati Opera is your one-stop destination for an electrifying, tailor-made musical experience that’s sure to leave your audience in awe! Perfect for assemblies, field days, block parties, and more! Have young audience members in attendance? Ask about adding a storybook element to the concert!
cincinnatiopera.org 8
Photos on pages 1-8: Philip Groshong, Jemannie Severson Luong, Elizabeth Reyna
DISCOVER THE WORLD OF
LALOVAVI
AN AFROFUTURISM OPERA
DISCOVER THE WORLD OF LALOVAVI: AN AFROFUTURISM OPERA
Ages 13-18
Set in the year 2425, Lalovavi is a breathtaking Afrofuturism opera in three acts that follows the journey of Persephone, the youngest daughter of the Primus of Atlas (formerly Atlanta) Titan Musan. In this world, currency and status are determined by the Syndica gene, which grants longevity. Persephone’s life takes a dramatic turn when it’s discovered she carries a unique gene that could unlock eternal life. Betrayed by her father and forced to flee, Persephone embarks on a heroic adventure that will reveal her true destiny. Her journey is a vibrant tapestry of colors, warrior healers, and a rich spiritual heritage. Persephone’s adventure will leave a lasting impact, sparking curiosity and inspiring a new perspective in students.
Join us for a transformative 2–3-day classroom experience for students in grades 7-12, where they’ll dive into the captivating world of Afrofuturism through the Lolovavi libretto. Students will engage in in-depth discussions about the storyline, characters, and themes. Through creative expression, they’ll be inspired to craft their own futuristic stories, drawing on the rich and fantastical elements of the opera. This educational experience will not only captivate their imaginations but also broaden their perspectives on cultural heritage and futuristic storytelling.
PIANIST CAROL WALKER prepares to accompany group sing during Music in Motion. Photo: Danielle Steele
SOPRANO CHRISTINA KERSTAN serenades teachers and students at Sharonville Elementary School. Photo: Jemannie Severson Luong
STUDENTS FROM JOHN P. PARKER SCHOOL express their gratitude with handmade cards for a Cincinnati Opera in Concert performance.
YOUNG AUDIENCE MEMBERS enjoy a Cincinnati Opera-led tour of Music Hall. Photo: Paige Pederzani
THE CARDINAL YOUTH QUARTET performs at the annual Community Open Dress Rehearsal. Photo: Philip Groshong
What programming will work best for my group? We are happy to talk through programming options with you! Please give us a call at 513-768-5548 for more details on any of our offerings. We have programs available for all ages and grade levels.
How long are Cincinnati Opera programs? Our programs are approximately 45 minutes in length. Some programs are presented in a series format, with multiple sessions over several days.
What are the prices for programs?
We are always willing to work with you on pricing. Our programs typically range from $150-$1200. Full or partial grant funding may also be available.
I would like to connect your programming to our curriculum. Is that possible? Absolutely! Our education staff and teaching artists will work with you to integrate content into the lessons. We have programs that have been specifically designed to align with content standards and are happy to collaborate with you!
“Music gives us a language that cuts across the disciplines, helps us to see connections, and brings a more coherent meaning to our world.”
–Ernest Boyer, President, Carnegie Foundation
For booking information and pricing, call 513-768-5548 or email education@cincinnatiopera.org.
