The Concord Orchestra presents Fairytale Adventures

Eric Culver will be the guest conductor.   Joyce Kulhawik narrates two beloved fairy tales: Michael Gandolfi’s Pinocchio’s Adventures in Funland and Paul Patterson’s Little Red Riding Hood Songbook.The performance begins with the Overture to The Bartered Bride, a lively piece inspired by Czech folk music.

Pinocchio’s Adventures in Funland  by Michael Gandolfi concentrates on a part of Carlo Collodi’s story that takes place in Funland, also known as the Land of Toys or Pleasure Island. Pinocchio runs away to escape the responsibilities of school and the taunts of children. He is transformed into a donkey, joins a circus, and finally is reunited with Geppetto.

“Michael has worked with librettist Dana Bornstrom to fashion a very clever, poetic version of Pinocchio,” said Richard Pittman. “Michael also has chosen some well-known American children’s songs to create the musical carnival atmosphere of Funland.”

The narration for Little Red Riding Hood Songbook is based on humorous verses by famous children’s author Roald Dahl.  The Longwood High School Treble Chorus performs Little Red Riding Songbook with the orchestra.

The program concludes with a sing-along of holiday music led by Ms. Kulhawik.

An “instrument petting zoo” is planned for the break between the 2:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. performances.  Children will have the opportunity to play musical instruments with the assistance of orchestra members.