UC Merced Arts invites everyone to a free performance that serves up whimsy, interactive fun and an inspiring message with a big helping of … operatic singing.
“Panic in the Barnyard,” a children’s story for the young and young at heart, will be performed at 6:30 p.m. Friday, May 17 at the Art Kamangar Center at the Merced Theatre, 301 W. Main St. in downtown Merced. The show is a presentation of the UC Merced Children’s Opera program, which each year puts a high-energy, entertaining spin on a venerated style of theater.
The show is directed by Jenni Samuelson , a music lecturer for UC Merced’s Global Arts Studies Program (GASP). The book and lyrics for “Panic in the Barnyard” are by Nancy Steele Brokaw, an Illinois-based writer and the mother of UC Merced English Professor Katie Brokaw .
“Panic in the Barnyard” tells the story of four animal buddies whose lives are upended by Weasel, who uses rumors and untruths to drive wedges between the barnyard residents. Thankfully, the bonds of friendship are stronger and everyone (even Weasel) comes together for a big, happy ending.
“What ‘Panic in the Barnyard’ is ultimately about is that we’re better together. We all can accomplish so much more when we tell the truth and work together as a team!” said Samuelson, adding that the elder Brokaw is a wonderful source for original, accessible plays that entertain and teach.
The cast includes professional opera singers Uriah Brown and Matthew Skinner, two friends from Samuelson’s theater career. Also on stage with be three UC Merced students — graduating four-year psychology major Lois Lopez, second-year GASP major Keona Huang and second-year GASP major Isabella Duong. Three more students are on the production crew — graduating fourth-year GASP major Junior Cruz Mercado, third-year GASP major Aryn Torres and first-year human biology major David Patridge.
The music consists of classic opera tunes that are recognizable from pop culture but with words rewritten to fit the family-friendly plot. Audience members are taught a song early on and urged throughout the show to interact with the performers. “We think it introduces you to classical, operatic music in a very friendly way,” Samuelson said.
The evening also will feature a special performance by the Merced Children’s Holiday Choir, directed by Samuelson and Darrel Lingenfelter.
In addition to the May 17 performance, UC Merced Children’s Open will take “Panic in the Barnyard” on the road, doing shows at several Merced County schools May 13-24. UC Merced has put on opera performances for elementary school children since 2009.
The 2024 UC Merced Children’s Opera is a UC Merced Arts production and sponsored by the Central Valley Community Foundation, the Coastal Community Foundation, the Merced County Office of Education, and the Merced County Education Foundation.
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