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Opera for less than a song

Opera doesn’t usually come free, and Seattle Opera’s January production of “Cinderella” (“La Cenerentola”) by Rossini is no exception. But there are two free previews coming up, this weekend at the Gig Harbor library and next weekend at Seattle’s McCaw Hall, that may make it easier to decide whether to buy a ticket.

ROSEMARY PONNEKANTI; Staff writer
Published: Dec. 28, 2012 at 12:05 a.m. PST
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Opera doesn’t usually come free, and Seattle Opera’s January production of “Cinderella” (“La Cenerentola”) by Rossini is no exception. But there are two free previews coming up, this weekend at the Gig Harbor library and next weekend at Seattle’s McCaw Hall, that may make it easier to decide whether to buy a ticket.

Rossini’s “Cinderella” is a fun, frilly example of why most nonopera people like Rossini. There’s a reason why his music has been claimed by Bugs Bunny and every single horse race in town: It’s funny, catchy and very singable. “Cinderella” is an instantly recognizable plot, and when you add in ugly stepsisters with bouffy hairdos, plus a pretty heroine and a charming prince, you’ve got a recipe for a fun opera.

This Sunday, Seattle opera expert Norm Hollingshead shares his enthusiasm for the opera in a free adult-oriented preview at the Gig Harbor Pierce County Library: 2 p.m. Dec. 30, 4424 Point Fosdick Drive NW, Gig Harbor; 253-548-3305, pierce county library.org.

Then next weekend at Seattle’s opera venue McCaw Hall, kids and adults can explore the opera with interactive stations such as dancing and friendship bracelet making before hearing musical excerpts and Cinderella stories from around the world: 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Jan. 5, free, Marion Oliver McCaw Hall, 321 Mercer St., Seattle; 206-389-7676, seattleopera.org.

If you decide to buy tickets for “Cinderella,” the production runs Jan. 12-26, with a family matinee Jan. 20 where up to four $15 youth tickets are available with one adult ticket.

Rosemary Ponnekanti: 253-597-8568

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