Max and Moritz in NYC
2:00 PM - 3:00 PM
In collaboration with the Consulate General of Norway in New York and towards its mission of fostering international collaborations of the highest caliber, the New York Opera Society has commissioned a chamber opera for children from renowned Norwegian composer Gisle Kverndokk (NYOS 2010-2011 Composer-in-Residence) and celebrated librettist Øystein Wiik called Max and Moritz. Long before Tom Sawyer, Dennis the Menace, or Calvin and Hobbes, there was Max and Moritz. Experience the high-spirited pranks (all seven of them! ) and the moral conclusion of famed Norwegian composer Gisle Kverndokk’s inventive, operatic premiere of one of Germany’s most beloved children’s stories, written by Wilhelm Busch and published in 1865. Those familiar with Der Struwwelpeter (Shaggy Peter) and the Tales of Hoffman will appreciate the black comedy of two naughty boys and the havoc that follows their wake in a quiet agrarian village. Although adults will appreciate the boys’ sly poke at our traditional middle-class values and venerated members of society, children will be captivated by Max and Moritz’ savvy and colorful adventures. And just before kids start to worship Max and Moritz, they will learn the ultimate lesson of the consequences that follow the boys’ actions. Performance will take place at 350 Grand Street between Ludlow and Essex.