The Christmas Spider

On a bitterly cold Christmas Eve, a poor woodcutter and his two children have no gifts, barely enough to eat, and are in danger of losing their home to an impatient landlady. The surprise discovery of a large, but gentle arachnid leads to a seemingly miraculous turn of good fortune for the family, reinforcing the importance of love and togetherness.

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Inspired by a Ukrainian legend (which resulted in the placing of spider ornaments on Christmas trees for a lucky New Year), THE CHRISTMAS SPIDER is the third operatic collaboration between composer Clint Borzoni and librettist John de los Santos following When Adonis Calls and The Copper Queen. Their goal is to dramatize a new tale for all ages, complete with an original yuletide carol, that adds to the rich musical tapestry of the holiday canon.

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"The Christmas Spider was developed by The American Opera Project in their First Chance program."

Free Pre show Talk & Children's Activity before the show

Children's Christmas Spider Ornament Activity - 1:45-2:30pm 

Pre show Talk - 2:00-2:30pm

Enjoy a free Children's Activity before the performance. Children pre-k through highschool can join us to make a Christmas Spider Tree Ornament and learn about the legend of the Christmas Spider before the performance. Art supplies and direction will be provided. Adults may drop off their children and attend the FREE pre-show lecture at 2:00pm or stay to participate. Pick your children up at 2:30pm and see what the children have made while enjoying refreshments.