Jane Rosenberg’s delightful retellings for children of the greatest operas–whether the tales are read as introductions to a opera or to relive a production already seen, art and text combine to give a clear understanding of plot, scene, and character. Young children in particular will enjoy reading the stories–or having them read–both as lovely fairy tales and to help them share in the magic of a real dramatic performance.

Here are the gaiety of The Barber of Seville and the lavish spectacle of Aida. Sets, costumes, and lighting are re-created to give the true flavor of authentic productions and to approximate, as fully as possible, the experience of attending the opera oneself.