Peter and the Wolf

Lewisville Lake Symphony's Family Concert features Chip Waggoner from Fox 4 as the narrator in Prokofiev’s Peter and the Wolf. Chip tells a tale so curious that it takes members of the symphony and dancers from the LakeCities Ballet to help him explain what happens when young Peter and his friends venture into the forest near his home. The ballet is choreographed by Kelly Lannin and staged by Janet Waters.

Pre-kindergarten through elementary aged youngsters greatly enjoy hearing Peter’s adventure while learning a few things about music along the way. The kids get to sprawl on gym mats right in front of the action. Parents and grandparents have a good time too watching from the nearby chairs and bleachers.

After the concert, symphony volunteers offer an instrument petting zoo where the kids can try out real orchestral instruments. There is also a workshop where they can make instruments of their own devising.

Adron Ming, music director and conductor of the Lewisville Lake Symphony, explains, "Prokofiev took his two sons to the Moscow Children's Music Theatre to learn about music. They were bored and fidgety so he decided to write a light-hearted piece that would introduce children to the instruments and sounds of the orchestra.

"Each character in the story is represented by a tune and instrument. Peter's signature tune is a cheerfully whistling theme in the strings. He has an adventure in a meadow which is territory forbidden by his grandfather (a grumpy bassoon). There is also a cat (a clarinet) stalking in the grass, a duck (a quacking oboe) a bird (an agile flute) and some hunters (drums). The wolf bares its teeth to menacing horns. Peter ends up catching the wolf with the help of his animal friends, and leads a triumphant procession with grandfather still complaining."

Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for children, and $25 for families. Tickets can be purchased online at lewisvillesymphony.org or at the door. For general information about the concert call 972/874-9087.