Elijah's Kite
Camyar Chai, librettist / James Rolfe, composer
Elijah's Kite, an opera for young people, premiered in New York City on April 9, 2006, as part of the Manhattan School of Music Opera Outreach Triple Bill Concert for Families and Children. A co-production between MSM and Tapestry, it is one of only a handful of Canadian operas ever to premiere in New York City.
Tapestry commissioned a comprehensive study guide to accompany its inaugural tour, which had its Canadian premiere on October 30 at Rideau Hall in the presence of Her Excellency Michaëlle Jean, Governor General of Canada.
The study guide was written by arts education specialist Pat McCarthy in collaboration with Katherine McKenney and Dr. Debra Pepler of York University. Dr. Pepler has endorsed the project, which deals with her area of specialty, bullying, a subject of concern for children, parents and educators everywhere. Tapestry is pleased to partner with PREVNet (Promoting Relationships and Eliminating Violence) in its work to promote safety and healthy relationships for all Canadian children and youth.
This timely and important work is being seen by thousands of students throughout Ontario as it continues to tour schools and community centres around the province.
"Our experience with the "Elijah's Kite" opera project was highly positive. From the very first tentative session - listening to the music and learning the chorus' parts - to the actual day of rehearsal and performance at Rideau Hall - the children and teachers were excited, nervous and charged - to learn and grow. Our chorus from Vincent Massey Public School represented all corners of the globe, divergent income levels and many learning strengths and challenges. What unified the whole group of children and three teachers was the challenge of becoming musicians and performers.
Working with Wayne and Alex and the Tapestry troupe was a total thrill. They were kind, encouraging, insightful and sharp. Watching our grade 7's rehearse their parts with the opera singers was a wonderful experience. As we watched them rehearse, and later perform, we saw strengths and talents we had not seen before. We were as high as kites when we left Rideau Hall late that night.
Music is highly empowering; it brings out and unifies so many different emotions. It democratizes, allowing many different people to sing with one voice, assured of their part and their importance. We would love to be involved in any other Tapestry New Opera projects."
...Heather Swail, Gr. 7 teacher
If you are interested in booking Elijah’s Kite at your school or community centre, please contact us at education@tapestrynewopera.com or 416.537.6066 x224.
Download the Elijahs' Kite Performance Logistics
Download the Elijah's Kite Study Guide
