This unique initiative shines a spotlight on operas inspired by stories and books commonly featured in school curricula, as well as written works that may not be currently present in schools. By bringing stories to life on stage, Opera Modesto creates an approachable form of art that encourages students to engage with familiar narratives in a dynamic and immersive way. The archive curated by Opera Modesto encompasses a diverse range of operatic interpretations, from timeless tales like “Jack and the Beanstalk” and “Don Quixote” to literary masterpieces such as “Sherlock Holmes” and “Mansfield Park.” Additionally, the inclusion of enduring fables from Aesop and haunting narratives like Edgar Allan Poe’s “Tell-Tale Heart” adds depth and richness to the repertoire.
In addition to the live performances, Opera Modesto has crafted both long and short-form educational curricula tailored to each literacy-based opera. These curricula serve as valuable educational resources, providing teachers with comprehensive tools to integrate opera into their lesson plans effectively. By intertwining artistic expression with academic learning, Opera Modesto’s initiative not only enriches students’ cultural literacy but also cultivates a deeper appreciation for the arts within the community.
“Opera America has been pleased to provide support for Opera Modesto programs that demonstrate the company’s dedication to enriching the city and region it serves. The literacy initiative is only one example of Opera Modesto’s commitment to enhance student learning through opera – while building the opera audience of the future. Bravo!“
Marc Scorca, CEO Opera America
Left to right: 2020: Mansfield Park. The US premiere of the orchestrated version. Composed by Jonathan Dove, Libretto by Alasdair Middleton. 2021: The Race, an Aesop’s Fables Mash Up. A world premiere movie made in partnership with Creation Lab Pictures, commissioned by Opera Modesto. Composed by Deborah Kavasch, Libretto by Linda Bunney-Sarhad. 2022: Double bill of one-act operas – Bless Me, Ultima and Dulcinea. Bless Me, Ultima – world premiere, one-act chamber version, commissioned by Opera Modesto. Dulcinea – US premiere. Bless Me, Ultima Composer and Librettist: Hector Armienta. Dulcinea Composed by Mauricio Sotelo, Libretto by Andrés Ibáñez.
Left to right: 2023: Double bill of one-act operas – Tell Tale Heart and Annabel. Annabel – world premiere commissioned by Opera Modesto. Tell Tale Heart Composer and Librettist: Stewart Copeland. Annabel Composed by Deborah Kavasch, Libretto by Linda Bunney-Sarhad. 2024: Sherlock Holmes and the Case of the Fallen Giant. The professional world premiere. Composed by Evan Meier, Libretto by E.M. Lewis. 2025: Hansel and Gretel Composed by Engelbret Humperdinck, Libretto by Adelheid Wette.