The Seattle Opera production of “Frida Kahlo and the Bravest Girl in the World” is based on the highly-acclaimed book by author and illustrator Laurence Anhol. The production is a delightful family-friendly tale that offers children insights into art, bravery, inclusion, and the power of friendship.
An introduction to Kahlo
The opera follows Marianna, a young girl who lives in Mexico City. Mariann’a home is filled with the breathtaking, evocative, and often playful artwork by Frida Kahlo. Kahlo’s many portraits, self-portraits, and other paintings were inspired by nature, artifacts of Mexico and the pop culture of her country in the first half of the 20th century. Her art explores questions of identity, gender, class, and race in Mexican society. The show is a great first introduction to Kahlo —Magdalena Carmen Frida Kahlo y Calderón — who was born in 1907.
Overcoming fear
Marianna is encouraged by her family to visit Kahlo and have her portrait painted by the renowned artist. But she is scared to go. That’s because Marianna has heard rumors: gossip has it the artist is a witch that keeps human skeleton bones in her bedroom. Still, Marianna musters up her courage and goes to Kahlo. As the artist begins to paint Marianna in her studio, all of the girl’s fears quickly dissipate, replaced by the buds of friendship. Marianna meets the artist Diego Rivera, Kahlo’s husband, and she hears the story of a terrible accident that changed Kahlo’s life. In the magical world of of opera, Kahlo’s animals — dog, parrot and monkey — all join in the singing.
“Frida Kahlo and the Bravest Girl in the World” offer two important lessons: It reminds children that art can happen anywhere and how important it is to be brave even when you feel scared. The production is appropriate for all ages, especially families with children.
This interactive bi-lingual piece features an updated text that moves seamlessly between English and Spanish.
Free Public Performances in the Parks Summer 2023
POWELL BARNETT PARK
352 Martin Luther King Jr Way, Seattle, WA 98122
Saturday, July 22, 2023 at 10:00 AM
Sunday, August 13, 2023 at 10:00 AM
HIGHLAND PARK
1100 SW Cloverdale St., Seattle, WA 98106
Sunday July 23, 2023 at 10:00 AM
Saturday August 12, 2023 at 10:00 AM
