Young children and their caregivers experienced the joy of music, colour and storytelling as the City’s Community, Arts and Culture Development Department partnered with Cape Town Opera to present eight Opera Blocks performances across libraries in Cape Town.
Opera Blocks is an interactive theatre experience designed specifically for children up to five years old, combining vibrant visuals, shapes and classical music to introduce young audiences to the world of opera in an accessible and engaging way.
The performances took place at libraries in Gugulethu, Bellville, Milnerton, Retreat and Sea Point, attracting more than 360 attendees over the past week. The final performance is scheduled to take place today at Sea Point Library.
Cape Town Opera’s Head of Education and Participation, Madré Loubser, says the production Opera Blocks Under the Sea created an immersive environment where children could actively participate through movement, imagination and play.
“We had such a wonderful time this week presenting our new production, Opera Blocks Under the Sea, to both our regular little ones and many new babies and toddlers. It was a joy to see how they responded to the colourful sea creatures and how much they enjoyed the arias – moving, listening, and joining in with excitement. One of the highlights was seeing some of our young ones dressed up as mermaids and pirates, really becoming part of the story.”
According to Loubser, introducing children to music and the arts from an early age can help nurture creativity, confidence and curiosity.
“At Cape Town Opera, we believe it’s important to introduce children to opera from a very young age. Through play, singing, dancing, and storytelling, we create a fun and welcoming space where children can experience music in a natural and joyful way. These early experiences help to build a love for opera and the arts that can grow with them over time.”
Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health, Councillor Francine Higham, says the continued popularity of Opera Blocks highlights the importance of making arts experiences accessible to families across communities.
“These concerts continue to grow in popularity, showing just how important it is to create opportunities for young children to experience the arts in their own communities. Through our partnership with Cape Town Opera, we are able to bring music, creativity and play into our public libraries in a way that is accessible and welcoming.”
The initiative demonstrates how partnerships between public institutions and arts organisations can support early childhood development while encouraging a lifelong appreciation for creativity and cultural participation.
