Frida Kahlo & the Bravest Girl in the World

Fort  Worth  Opera  (FWO)  is  excited  to  announce  the  world  premiere  of  composer  Joe  Illick  and  librettist Mark Campbell’s delightful one-act children’s opera, Frida Kahlo and the Bravest Girl in the World,  at the historic Rose Marine Theater on November 16, 2019, at 3 p.m.  Based upon the highly-acclaimed book by award-winning English  author  and  illustrator  Laurence Anholt,  this  charming  new  work  follows  the  real-life  story  of  Marianna  Morillo  Safa  and  her  friendship  with  famed  painter  Frida  Kahlo.  Stage  director  Octavio  Cardenas  (Zorro:  FWO  Festival  2020,  Silent Night), returns to Fort Worth to bring Anholt’s inspirational story and artwork to life. Featuring five talented singers from Fort Worth Opera’s Lesley Resident and Studio programs, this delightful family-friendly tale teaches children about art, bravery, and the power of friendship.

The opera follows Marianna, a young girl living in the heart of Mexico City, whose home is full of beautiful artwork by Frida Kahlo. She is encouraged by her family to visit Kahlo and have her portrait painted the renowned artist, but is terrified at the thought. There are rumors that Frida keeps skeletons above her bed and exotic pets in her Blue House -- people have even said that she is a witch. As Kahlo begins to paint Marianna in her studio, this fear quickly disappears, and a friendship blooms between the two. Marianna meets Frida’s husband, Diego Rivera, and learns of the horrible accident that almost killed her new friend. Through the magic of opera, Frida’s parrot, dog, and monkey all sing, and the audience is invited to join in on the fun as well.