Little Red Riding Hood

Little Red Riding Hood
Boulder Opera
Nomad Playhouse
Boulder Colorado
December 8-9, 2018

Every December, Boulder Opera presents a short opera designed for young audiences. It is a wonderful opportunity to expose young children to opera without losing their attention. This year’s performance was Little Red Riding Hood.

Before the show was a short introduction to opera terms, including a lesson in Bravo, Brava and Bravi. It set the stage for a first opera experience.

The set of the show was wildly creative. The entire stage was covered with artificial grass with flowers near the edge. A small house was nestled in one corner.

Little Red was pretty and exuberant. She easily engaged the audience. The Wolf, on the other hand, was charming and obviously up to no good. His baritone was deliciously dark in tone. A group of children played the woodsmen. Some were more talented than others, but they played their roles well.

Midway through the show was another instruction session. That took away from the momentum of the show. Especially considering there was a question and answer session afterwards as well.

The intimate Nomad Playhouse was an ideal place for this show. The only issue was at the end during he cast meet and greet in the tiny lobby. But the performers stayed around until every child had a chance to speak with their favorite character.