MACON – Mercer University Opera will present “The Trial of Goldilocks” by Robert Chauls and Joseph Robinette Oct. 19-21 at 7:30 p.m. and Oct. 22 at 3 p.m.
The show is a family-friendly performance referencing the fairytale of Goldilocks and the Three Bears. In the show, Goldilocks is prosecuted for breaking and entering the bears’ home in a continuation of where the traditional story ends.
In the courtroom, the fictional characters interact with the prosecutor and defense attorney to present their comic versions of the same events. A jury of animals makes some surprising decisions and doles out appropriately funny sentences for this feel-good story.
Dr. Malone, professor of music and performance director, notes that the show is “absolutely delightful. It’s a clever, sweet family show that updates an old-timey children’s tale with hilarious results.” Alongside Dr. Malone, the production will feature as music director Dr. Richard Kosowski, professor of music, chair of vocal studies and director of graduate studies.
Malone produced this children’s opera several years ago and took it off campus for Monroe County Schools, where it was seen by more than 1,500 children. Its popularity convinced her to bring back the story for Macon audiences.
“It’s a show filled with references and jokes that mom and dad will appreciate, as well as slapstick comedy and lots of action that moves the story right along,” she said. “Your children and grandchildren will love it, and so will their parents, your neighbors, anybody you can think of. The music covers a wide range of styles – songs go from a spoof of operatic drama to country music, so there’s never a dull moment.”
The concert will take place in Neva Langley Fickling Hall in the McCorkle Music Building. Tickets are $10 for general admission and are available at mercerevents.tixr.com. Admission is free for children grades Pre-K-12.
