papagayo

Papagayo
Words & Music by EDWARD BARNES
Based on “Papagayo” by Gerald McDermott
SYNOPSIS: Papagayo spends his days soaring through the skies and playing in the jungle. His raucous cries disturb the sleeping night creatures, who don’t have any interest in Papagayo’s games. But when the ferocious moon-dog appears in the night sky and, bit by bite, begins to devour the moon, the terrified night creatures are helpless. Only Papagayo knows how to save the moon, and the night creatures learn that Papagayo is a good friend to have– even if he is a bit NOISY.
THEMES: Music and singing save the day. Nature and environmental issues.
“A wonderful theatrical adventure. Enthusiastically greeted at every stop since its premiere.”
SAN DIEGO UNION-TRIBUNE

Illustrations ©copyright by Gerald McDermott
CAST: 4 + small ensemble
- Papagayo (tenor)
- Moon Dog (baritone)
- Monkey, Snake, Butterfly (soprano)
- Sloth, Frog (mezzo-soprano)
- Creatures of the Day, Creatures of the Night (ensemble)
DURATION: 30 minutes
ACCOMPANIMENT: Piano; or puppetry performed with fully orchestrated recording (San Diego Opera production cast)
COMMISSIONED BY: San Diego Opera
PRODUCTIONS: San Diego Opera, Cincinnati Opera, West Virginia University, Humboldt State University
videos/excerpts
Copyright 2022 – Operas for Children – Edward Barnes, Composer