North Hills School District

Pride • Tradition • Excellence

Opera Adventure 2017

World premieres of operas are very rare, so when we heard that a brand-new opera was about to have its first performance in Pittsburgh, we had to be a part of it!

Daniel Sonenberg's The Summer King chronicles the life of Negro Leagues slugger Josh Gibson and his quest to become the first African-American player in Major League baseball.

Over 250 students in grades 3-6 travelled to the Benedum Center to enjoy this unique experience. Some even met Sean Gibson, Josh's great-grandson and Executive Director of the Josh Gibson Foundation!

Students in all four elementary schools were able to explore the Opera Trunk and create their own mini-dramas in class.

In March, artists from Pittsburgh Opera presented a workshop to demonstrate opera scenes. Students helped the artists form the very emotional operetta, Il Appuntamento Col Dentista (The Appointment With the Dentist).

The North Hills group numbered 267! Our tickets for the event were on the main floor in the center, close enough to see the orchestra. During intermission, some students took pictures in front of the statue of Josh Gibson. One lucky group group got their picture taken with Sean Gibson.

Grades 3-6 really enjoyed The Summer King. Many said that they can't wait to see another opera!