|
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
DENVER, CO (June 9, 2026) — Central City Opera and Opera Colorado today announced a co-production of Earth to Kenzie, a critically celebrated children's opera composed by Frances Pollock with a libretto by Jessica Murphy Moo. Bookings for school and community performances are now open for fall 2026. Specifically designed for grades 3-6, this production is perfect for student audiences of all ages and community groups across the region.
The co-production of Earth to Kenzie marks a landmark in collaboration between the two largest Colorado opera companies and reflects a shared commitment to expanding access to live opera for young and first-time audiences across the state.
The story of Earth to Kenzie follows Kenzie–a fifth grader with homework, asthma, and a boundless imagination–as she and her mother navigate life in a family shelter. Escaping into a world of video games and space adventures alongside her avatar Edwin, Kenzie discovers courage she didn't know she had, and she learns that home is less a place than a feeling. The 45-minute, English-language production features four professional singers accompanied by piano.
Originally co-commissioned by Lyric Opera of Chicago and Seattle Opera, the work has been praised for meeting young audiences where they are by addressing themes of housing insecurity and resilience without talking down to children or reducing complex circumstances to a lesson.
"This collaboration is an exciting moment in the history of our two companies," said Adam Scurto, Managing Director of External Affairs at Central City Opera. “A partnership between Central City Opera and Opera Colorado just makes sense. By combining our resources and creativity, we’ll be connecting more students and community members to opera than either company could on its own.”
"This partnership allows us to deepen our collective impact while providing meaningful arts experiences for students throughout Colorado," said Dennis Robinson, Jr., Director of Programs & Partnerships at Opera Colorado. "Earth to Kenzie invites young audiences into a story that is imaginative, authentic, and emotionally resonant. We are grateful to collaborate with Central City Opera on this production and to combine our strengths in service of expanding access to opera for schools, families, and communities across the state. We believe opera can be a powerful tool for learning, reflection, and connection, and we're excited to share this work with new audiences throughout Colorado."
The production is particularly suited to classroom preparation and post-performance discussion. Educators will receive curriculum resources in advance of performances, and the story naturally supports conversation around social-emotional learning, community belonging, and the role of imagination in navigating adversity—themes that resonate across grade levels and learning environments.
School and community groups interested in booking a performance may contact María José Fabara at programs@operacolorado.org. Performances begin at $900 with discounts and scholarships available. Early booking is encouraged.
For more information, visit www.operacolorado.org/tour. |
