What to do on a slightly dreary October afternoon? One option is to have a really fantastic time at B’Opera’s Alice and the Library Tree. We didn’t really know what to expect. I’d seen photos of previous performances and we knew there would be singing and bright, interesting costumes. B’Opera describes itself as beautiful music for tiny ears. Whilst that is very true, it’s also so much more. My 7 year old really enjoyed herself and so did the grown ups!
We arrived at Walsall’s New Art Gallery and zipped up to the top floor in their lifts with a view loved by Little Lady. B’Opera were all set up for the show with blankets and cushions for us to sit on. As we waited for the show to start, the performers were welcoming children to the library where the show was set and handing out books. There was a real mix of ages from babies to grandparents. Some people had been to B’Opera performances before and were back for more.
It is very relaxed atmosphere and we were told from the start not to worry if our little ones made noise or wanted to wander around. One little girl checked out the library trolley of books on the set during the performance which was very sweet. The performers didn’t even blink when another little boy decided to investigate back stage where the costumes and props were kept.
Alice and the Library Tree told the tale of the mean Queen of Hearts who wanted to chop down the beautiful library tree and shut the library. (The children were horrified when she stamped on a book.) Cleverly, Alice used her understanding of stories to thwart the evil queen and save the library. The strong storyline, that the children could easily follow, made this an excellent family show.
I must mention the singing because of course it is an opera performance. As this is B’Opera it’s relaxed and the songs are fun. We even joined in with some of them. The performers are clearly very, very talented singers and the pianist who accompanied the whole show was incredible. Some of the performance was spoken and other parts were sung, in both English and Italian.
B’Opera worked really well for my family of mixed ages- 7 months and 7 years. Both of my children enjoyed different parts of the show. Little Lady loved all the costumes and changes of characters. Littlest Lady loved the giant piece of material floating above us during one of the songs. It’s not easy keeping a mix of ages entertained but B’Opera did just that. Prices are affordable for families and it’s easy to book online and find out what’s coming up through their Facebook or Instagram accounts. I encourage you to give them a follow and give B’Opera a go.
Thanks to B’Opera for inviting us along to review the show.
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