A journey of African American History told through music, dance, and spoken word
Footsteps to Freedom

Footsteps to Freedom chronicles the history of Black Americans and the African-American experience. Students will learn about the rich legacy and many contributions of Afro-Americans in today’s society, grown out of the sounds, songs, rituals, music, dance, spoken word, and rhythms of ancient Kemet, now known as Africa.

Prior to being led into slavery, African kings, queens, and pharaohs were rulers of great African nations and ruled highly developed societies for centuries, long before other cultures even came into civilized existence. Footsteps to Freedom features a variety of musical, literary, and dance styles, taking audiences of all ages on an entertaining, enlightening, and inspiring historical journey from what was once perceived as “strange and savage” to a celebration of the perpetual quest for freedom.

America is known for being a “melting pot” of different cultures and ethnicities. The arrival of black slaves, brought from Africa to America, contributed to that melting pot society in a profound way, and helped define the United States of America. Through prose, poetry, song, music, and dance, this educational outreach program from the Michigan Opera Theatre Touring Company illustrates how the spirit of Black Americans, handed down throughout the generations from Africa to America, has woven itself into every aspect of American life.

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The Pied Piper of Hamelin
Music and Libretto by: Seymour Barab

The Pied Piper of Hamelin is a delightful musical adaptation of the classic fairy tale with music and libretto by the dean of children’s Opera, Seymour Barab. The Pied Piper is hired by the Mayor of Hamelin to rid the town of its rats. The piper does what he's asked, but is denied the payment promised him; in revenge, he lures all of Hamelin's children out of town until the Mayor of Hamelin “pays the piper.” After the piper is paid the children are returned to their families and joy and peace are restored to Hamelin. This story allows children to learn the consequences of breaking promises. This show is 45 minutes in length and requires student participation in non-speaking roles.

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Other offerings...

The American Songbook

A dynamic cabaret-style revue of the most beautiful music from Broadway's greatest composers like George Gershwin, Jerome Kern, Rogers and Hammerstein, Lerner and Loewe, Andrew Lloyd-Webber, and more.

MOT Sampler

A variety sampler for audiences of all ages. An entertaining and educational revue of hits from Grand Opera, Operetta, and Musical Theatre.

Workshops

The Department of Community Programs offers myriad workshops for students and teachers alike. We can customize a program to suit your individual needs.

A sample of our workshops include:

Create and Perform (formerly Create Opera!) Improvisational curriculum in music, movement, acting, and language, culminating in a performance.

Conduct & Create! An assembly program which teaches conducting signals and culminates in performance pieces using either "body percussion," vocal and mouth sounds, or traditional instruments.

Lectures. On Opera, Michigan Opera Theatre, Detroit Opera House, Careers in the Arts—tailored to your needs.

Vocal Health. A comprehensive vocal workshop for aspiring speakers or singers who have an interest in vocal health, relaxation techniques, and vocal pedagogy.