
Converse Opera Double Feature: The Old Maid and the Thief & Children of the Sun

Join us for a compelling evening of opera that blends sharp wit with heartfelt storytelling in two powerful one-act works.
Gian Carlo Menotti’s The Old Maid and the Thief
This darkly comic opera explores the scandalous secrets lurking behind small-town respectability. When the prim Miss Todd and her clever maid Laetitia take in a charming drifter, Bob, their quiet lives spiral into chaos. As suspicion grows that Bob may be a wanted criminal, the women begin committing crimes themselves—ironically becoming the real villains in their quest to keep him. Menotti’s lively score and biting humor make this opera a delightful satire of gossip, desire, and moral hypocrisy.
Henry Mollicone’s Children of the Sun
Inspired by true events, this poignant opera tells the story of the Gabriel family, members of the Lakota Sioux, as they struggle with cultural erasure and identity in the face of forced assimilation. Set in the late 1800s, Children of the Sun weaves themes of resilience, loss, and the enduring strength of Native heritage into a moving musical narrative. With its evocative score and emotional depth, the opera invites reflection on a tragic chapter of American history that still resonates today.
Don’t miss this unique pairing of contrasting works—one satirical, one deeply reflective—that together offer an unforgettable operatic experience.
Ticket Prices
Adults: $18.00
Youth (18 & under): $12.00
Senior (65 & over): $12.00
Children 10 and under, dressed as their favorite character from Cinderella: FREE
Converse Faculty, Staff, & Students – One free admission with a Converse ID