This is Annabelle—one of the children who receive tutoring at Brookside Community Play. In early October, she attended the new children’s opera, “The Monon Town Musicians” here at Brookside. She was so captivated by the performance that she did something quite remarkable when it ended. 

This performance was a culmination of weeks of preparation by the Resident Artists of the Indianapolis Opera through sessions held at Brookside. Each week, they would share their love of music and theater with the children. Throughout the building, one could hear beautiful vocal scales in that distinct operatic style. Behind the scenes, this experience had a profound influence on Annabelle. 

“The Monon Town Musicians” is about four wandering animals (Dog, Robin, Cat, and Rabbit) who separately seek to become solo musicians in an upcoming talent show. But when they all meet, they realize that though their singing styles differ, they are much better as a group.

Not only did Annabelle love the music and theatre, but she also saw herself in the characters. “When they sang, it kind of reminded me of when I was in another school program. They would bully me, and I didn’t like that at all. I felt like I was Cat (in the opera), and the Robin was bullying me.” 

But for Annabelle, the show also reminded her that she is strong. “When I saw the Rabbit and the Robin (actors). I wanted to sing back to them because their music inspired me. I want to be a music teacher and an art teacher because those are my favorite subjects.”

Now, did you catch the remarkable thing? Annabelle was so moved that she not only thanked them by singing ”Thank You” but also made the declaration to one day become a teacher of music and art; grounding herself in what she currently knows brings her joy. She may be unaware that she redirected her traumatic experiences into something positive. Now she can see how music and art can help her create a future that brings her joy. 

Brookside Community Play intentionally creates programming experiences that foster inspiration in our youth. The timing was right for Annabelle. There is so much power in feeling understood the way Annabelle felt watching the opera. Now she has found a way to express her feelings and experiences through art and has a vision for her future. Now, it is up to us to encourage her in making her dreams a reality.

More Stories