Cape Town, July 2025 – As the school holidays settle in, Cape Town Opera (CTO) is transforming city libraries into enchanted stages with Opera Blocks: Forest Friends, a heartwarming, interactive production designed to captivate young imaginations and foster a love for the arts.
Running from 1 to 5 July, Forest Friends sees professional opera singers – fresh from CTO’s acclaimed run of Aida – don whimsical costumes and take on the roles of furry woodland creatures. These free, 40-minute shows transform bookshelves into enchanted forests and aisles into magical realms, all while serenading audiences with live classical melodies.
🎭 Why It Matters
Brought to life through a partnership with the Judith Neilson Foundation and the City of Cape Town, this initiative does more than entertain. Studies show that early exposure to live music – particularly complex genres like opera – boosts emotional intelligence and language development in young children. Forest Friends makes high-quality opera accessible to communities across the Mother City, removing financial and physical barriers to experiencing live performance.
📍 Schedule and Library Locations
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1 July, 1pm – Athlone Library
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2 July, 10am–2pm – Edgemead Library (Drop-in sessions)
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3 July, 12pm–2pm – Cape Town Central Library (Drop-in sessions)
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4 July, 2pm – Hout Bay Library
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5 July, Time TBC – Langa Library
Whether it’s the giggle of a soprano squirrel or the rumble of a bassoon-playing bear, Forest Friends creates first-time musical memories that may last a lifetime. For some children, this is their first brush with classical performance — an experience that nurtures imagination and self-expression.
🎟️ Free Family Fun with a Purpose
With zero admission fees, Opera Blocks: Forest Friends is a rare opportunity to introduce kids to live opera, right in their local neighbourhood. It’s a holiday activity that’s not only fun, but developmentally enriching — a win for both caregivers and curious young minds.
Cape Town parents, take note: this is your secret weapon for a meaningful, magical day out.
📌 Follow Cape Town Opera for more cultural gems:
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Instagram: @capetownopera
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Website: www.capetownopera.co.za
📚 In partnership with the City of Cape Town Libraries.
🎶 Supported by the Judith Neilson Foundation.
