The CSO is partnering with the Columbus Ballet to bring to life the children’s classic, Peter and the Wolf. This family favorite introduces live classical music, ballet, and instruments of the orchestra to children of all ages. This one-hour concert tells the story of Peter and his adventure in the meadow near his home through the orchestral instruments and ballet dancers on stage.

CSO’s Music Director George Del Gobbo said "Peter & the Wolf was written by Prokofiev in 1936 as the result of a commission by a Moscow children's theater.  The intent was to help instill in children, at a very early age, a love and appreciation for symphonic music.  The premiere was ignored and attendance at the concert was minimal.  Since then, however, Peter & the Wolf has become the world's most popular classical music entertainment for young children.  We are delighted to add the visual aspect of dance to the words and music of Prokofiev in what we know will be a most enjoyable performance.”

At 5:30 pm on January 31^st, preceeding the 6:30 pm performance, children and their families are invited to participate in special interactive lobby activities. Two school matinees will also take place on the following Monday, February 1^st at 9:30 am and 11:30 am.

Cameron Bean, CSO Executive Director said, “We are thrilled to collaborate with the Columbus Ballet and narrator Ron Anderson on this popular Young People's Concert. The confluence of dance, music and theatre is sure to serve up an entertaining experience for hundreds of children and families.”

The CSO is excited to be partnering with the Columbus Ballet along with a special narration from Ron Anderson to bring a new and exciting aspect to their season. Along with their Challenger Strings program, the CSO continues to expand its educational outreach not only to local schools, but to the public as well.

“Courage, teamwork, humor, dance, and good-natured tunefulness. Does life get any better than this?” said Lisa Carter, Columbus Ballet’s Executive Director.