ABOUT THE PERFORMANCE
Designed specifically for children in Pre-K through 3rd grade, The Ugly Duckling celebrates kindness, confidence, and self-discovery through an engaging production and character photo opportunities.
September 26 | 11:00 a.m. | Fort Worth Zoo – Enjoy a performance paired with a day at the Fort Worth Zoo! Every ticket includes zoo admission and an interactive animal encounter led by Zoo staff.
March 5–6, 2027 | 11:00 a.m. | Rose Marine Theater – Celebrate Women's History Month with a special family experience, including free admission to Artes de la Rosa's exhibition of contemporary Hispanic women artists and one hour of hands-on arts and crafts following each performance of The Ugly Duckling.
The Ugly Duckling is a whimsical retelling of Hans Christian Andersen’s beloved fairy tale, with an original score by composer Andrew Duncan. This production allows students to experience the thrill of opera—at their very own school—through a story that encourages young people to accept the differences in others.
In this tale, the Ugly Duckling doesn’t fit in with the other ducklings because she looks and sounds different than they do. After discovering the Big Bad Wolf’s tricks and saving the other ducklings from danger, the Ugly Duckling teaches those around her an important lesson about kindness, courage, and appreciating others for who they are.
Through this adaptation of the classic fairy tale, students will be exposed to operatic music and classical singing, while also exploring the important themes of diversity and tolerance.
Featuring the Hattie Mae Leslie Resident Artists
Rayna Mia Campbell
Lauren Salazar
Cecil Garrison
