The world famous tunes of Mozart, Rossini, and Donizetti ring out in this operatic adaptation of "The Billy Goats Gruff" that is brimming with fun and laughs for kids and the whole family! Join three best friends and one bully billy goat who learn the importance of kindness.

This 40-minute opera features music from famous operas with silly new words and fun dialogue, presented in English, and perfect for the entertainment of our youngest audiences (and their parents too!). Thanks to donors and sponsors, this program is free for the entire family to enjoy at no cost. Warning, audience participation is likely!

Join before the performance when the City of Edwardsville Arts in the Park series will be making crafts. Then, enjoy the performance in the main reading room of the Edwardsville Public Library at 10am.

The story: An after-school game of hide and seek is ruined for three billy goat friends when a big bully blocks a bridge, preventing them from being able to go home. Remembering what their moms, dads and teachers have told them about dealing with bullies, two boy billy goats resolve to go home a different, longer way and share their difficulties with grownups. The littlest girl goat, however, not wanting to abandon the beloved doll that’s been snatched from her, tromps to the crest of the bridge and, confronting the bully, prevails by inadvertently pushing him into the creek below. Concerned for his well-being, she shows her would-be adversary kindness by asking if he’s OK. He responds by asking if she’s OK. By the time the two boys return with help, she’s able to introduce a soggy, forlorn ex-bully as their new friend.

40 minutes performance in English. Music by Sir Arthur Sullivan with words and story adaption by John Davies.