People's University: Building a Fairy Tale Opera: Exploring the Music and Stage Magic of Pinocchio

Summary: In March 2009, The Minnesota Opera will be stages the American premiere of The Adventures of Pinocchio. This fantastical tale brings to life the wooden boy who wants to be good, but just can't stay out of trouble. Guided by the Blue Fairy, Pinocchio has a lot to learn before he can discover the secret to becoming a real boy. Jonathan Dove's exhilarating music is paired with magical stagecraft and storybook scenery. Come explore how a beloved fairy tale becomes a full-scale opera. In this People's University class, literature and opera buff Marcia Aubineau leads composer Jonathan Dove, director Martin Duncan, and librettist Alasdair Middleton in a look behind the scenes at the opera, The Adventures of Pinocchio. Recorded live on March 17, 2009 from the Minneapolis Central Library's Pohlad Hall. The People's University is presented by the Library Foundation of Hennepin County.