Frida Kahlo and the Bravest Girl in the World

Music by Joe Illick
Libretto by Mark Campbell 
Spanish Translation by Arlene Martínez-Vázquez

Lyric's Opera in the Neighborhoods program brings live performances of youth-focused operas to neighborhood venues throughout the Chicago area. Programmed for grades 3-6, Opera in the Neighborhoods is free to schools groups, and bus scholarships are available for qualifying schools.

Join us for our 2024/25 Opera in the Neighborhoods student performances of Frida Kahlo and the Bravest Girl in the World, a story about facing your fears, learning new things, and the power of friendship. Based on the acclaimed book by author and illustrator Laurence Anholt, the story follows the real-life friendship of Mariana, a young girl living in the heart of Mexico City, and Frida Kahlo, the famed artist. When Mariana plucks up her courage to meet Frida, a friendship blossoms between them. You’ll meet Frida’s husband, artist Diego Rivera, as well as a singing parrot, dog, and monkey. Young people will delight in the opportunity to participate in this charming musical journey!

Running Time: 45 minutes

Show dates and locations

Spring tour

Wednesday, April 16 at 10:00 AM
Thursday, April 17 at 10:00 AM
Harold Washington Library
400 S. State Street

Chicago, IL 60605

Tuesday, April 22 at 10:00 AM
Tuesday, April 22 at 12:00 PM
Wednesday, April 23 at 10:00 AM
Wednesday, April 23 at 12:00 PM
Thursday, April 24 at 10:00 AM
Thursday, April 24 at 12:00 AM
National Museum of Mexican Art
1852 W. 19th Street
Chicago, IL 60608

Fall tour

Friday, October 11 at 10:00 a.m. & 12:00 p.m.
Kennedy-King College Theater

Tuesday, October 15 at 10:00 a.m. & 12:00 p.m.
North Central College - Pfeiffer Hall

Wednesday, October 16 at 10:00 a.m. & 12:00 p.m.
Governors State University Center for Performing Arts

Wednesday, October 23 at 10:00 a.m.
Thursday, October 24 at 10:00 a.m.
Kehrein Center for the Arts

Tuesday, October 29 at 10:00 a.m. & 12:00 p.m.
College of Lake County, James Lumber Center for the Performing Arts

Friday, November 1 at 10:30 a.m.
Reva and David Logan Center for the Arts

Backstage Pass!

The Backstage Pass! is a family-friendly introduction to the world of opera and this production of Frida Kahlo and the Bravest Girl in the World. Filled with insights, information, and activities — the Backstage Pass! is a wonderful way to enhance your performance experience.

Download Backstage pass!

Student learning standards

Through attendance at the live performance and active participation in the learning resources provided in Lyric's Backstage Pass! booklet, this program is designed to meet several key learning standards.

Learn more about the student learning standards

Artists

JASON CARLSON
MUSIC SUPERVISOR 

 

CARRIE REES *
COSTUME DESIGNER

 

SHELBY KRARUP 
AMANDA SHELLER
STAGE MANAGER 

 

MARI DeOLEO 
TOUR MANAGER

 

* Lyric debut

Adapted from the book Frida Kahlo and the Bravest Girl in the World by Laurence Anholt. Commissioned by Fort Worth Opera. Licensed by arrangement with the Barbara Hogenson Agency, Inc. Scenery and Props designed by Brandon David Riel. Costumes designed by Carrie Rees. The production was constructed by Seattle Opera.