Thanks to an exciting partnership between Piedmont Opera and The Ginther Group, children in the Piedmont Triad will have a unique opportunity to experience the magic of opera in a whole new way! Through the Storytime with Piedmont Opera program, kids can meet an opera singer who reads an engaging children’s book at their local library, school, bookstore, or daycare.
Storytime with Piedmont Opera is a dynamic outreach initiative that connects local Piedmont Opera singers with existing storytime locations to introduce young children and their families to the world of opera in a comfortable and fun-filled way. Through interactive storytelling, the program helps nurture creativity, spark imaginations, and inspire the next generation. At each event, a Piedmont Opera singer reads a thoughtfully chosen book from the organization’s specially curated children’s library—titles such as “Bantam of the Opera,” “Mozart Finds a Melody,” and “Bravo! Brava!” are just a few of the featured stories.
Following the reading, the singer offers a demonstration of their operatic voice, providing children with an up-close look at the art form and what it’s like to be an opera singer. To round out the experience, attendees are invited to ask questions and meet the singer in a familiar, friendly atmosphere. In addition to reaching young audiences, this program creates valuable performance opportunities for local opera singers who bring their talent and passion for music back to the community allowing the artists to engage with a young audience in a special and meaningful way.
Blake Ginther, CEO of The Ginther Group, has a passion for the arts that runs deep. Before becoming a top real estate professional, he pursued a career in musical theater, training at the Cincinnati Conservatory of Music. His journey took him to New York City, where he performed in Mamma Mia!, Les Misérables, Junie B. Jones (Off-Broadway), 110 in the Shade (Off-Broadway), and in the roles of Tony in West Side Story and Billy Bigelow in Carousel. His love for performing began in fifth grade, giving him purpose and direction until his mid-20s when he discovered his other passion, real estate! Now, as CEO of The Ginther Group, Blake remains committed to supporting the arts and creating opportunities for young people to experience its magic. Blake and his wife have always prioritized giving back to the arts, especially programs that support children. Through The Ginther Group, they seek partnerships that enrich the community, making Storytime with Piedmont Opera a perfect fit. By combining literacy, music, and performance, this initiative introduces young minds to the transformative power of the arts, something Blake understands firsthand.
“The Ginther Group is proud to support this initiative, which makes opera more accessible to young people in our community. By sponsoring Storytime with Piedmont Opera, we are helping foster creativity, literacy, and a love of music in young minds, all while making opera an approachable and enjoyable experience.”
Piedmont Opera invites you to bring the kids to an upcoming public Storytime! Visit piedmontopera.org/storytime
