'The Miracle Tree: An Ecological Opera' at Mastro Montessori School

On Friday, June 7, the students and families of the Mastro Montessori Academy came together in joyous celebration of the 4th Annual Children’s Opera in cooperation with Youth Opera International. 

The opera titled The Miracle Tree: An Ecological Opera, was performed by Mastro Montessori students ranging in age from 5 through 12. 

This magical production was set in the Amazon rainforest that the children creatively designed themselves and featured majestic animals, birds and insects of all shapes and sizes. 

The students deserve much credit for their focus and diligence in bringing this opera from concept to the stage. 

The children worked hard, but also had a lot of fun rehearsing in the afternoons at school as well as a whirlwind week of professional instruction on the three key elements of theater: singing, dancing and acting. 

At week’s end, these components were expertly blended together into an original children’s opera that captivated the audience. 

Composed, directed, and choreographed by William and Hollis Bokhout of Youth Opera International, this exceptional experience in the arts provided the students to discover not only the magic of performing, but an enthusiastic interest in the study of voice, dance and instruments, as well as the development of grace and poise in front of a large audience.

The opera is the highlight of the year; both for the children and the families.  This year’s opera was a particularly special and heartfelt performance as it was dedicated to Mastro Montessori’s Elementary Teacher, Ms. Sasha Cherniavsky, in celebration of her 20 years of dedication and service to the children and family of the Mastro Montessori Community. 

Mastro Montessori academy is located in Shrewsbury. Founded in 1968, it is the only Montessori school in Monmouth County accredited by the Association Montessori Internationale.  It offers programs for children in the toddler community through sixth grade. 

For more information, please call 732 219-5400 or visit us at mastromontessori.org.