Rootabaga Country
Sarasota Youth Opera
A children's opera in one act
Music and Libretto by Rachel J. Peters
A whimsical journey of imagination, family, and self‑discovery.
Inspired by Carl Sandburg’s Rootabaga Stories, this whimsical adventure follows Gimme the Ax and his children, Please Gimme and Ax Me No Questions, as they journey through the imaginative—but not magical—landscape of Rootabaga Country to learn more about the mother they never knew. Musically crafted for young voices yet rich in character, Rootabaga Country blends playful storytelling with heartfelt themes. Along the way, the family discovers that love and belonging come in many forms, offering a gentle, resonant reflection on curiosity, courage, and the shape of family.
November | 07 - November | 08
Sung In:
English
Estimated Run Time:
1 Hour
Cast & Staff
Performing
Nov 7, 8
Potato Face Blind Man
Riley Findley
Performing
Nov 7, 8
Performing
Nov 7, 8
Director
Martha Collins
Performing
Nov 7, 8
Costume Designer
Howard Tsvi Kaplan
Performing
Nov 7, 8
Facts about Rootabaga Country
Composer & Premiere: Rachel J. Peters; premiered in 2017
Source Material: Based on whimsical stories by Carl Sandburg from his Rootabaga Stories
Story & Style: A series of imaginative, loosely connected tales filled with quirky characters, talking animals, and fantastical adventures
Musical Language: Blends contemporary classical style with accessible, lyrical writing and playful rhythms
Tone: Lighthearted and humorous, with a sense of wonder and childlike imagination
Themes: Celebrates creativity, storytelling, and the magic of seeing the world through a child’s eyes
Audience Appeal: Family-friendly and inventive, offering something charming and offbeat for audiences of all ages
Where is the Sarasota Opera House?
The historic Sarasota Opera House is in downtown Sarasota at 61 N. Pineapple Street.
For detailed directions, please visit https://www.sarasotaopera.org/directions.
Are there refreshments at the theater?
There are concessions at the Opera House which sell a variety of beverages, snacks, and sandwiches. The lobby is open 1 hour and 15 minutes before a performance, and the courtyard is open 1 hour and 45 minutes before a performance. We encourage you to come early to enjoy refreshments. No food or drink are allowed inside the auditorium.
What should I wear to the opera?
You are encouraged to dress in whatever way you feel most comfortable. Some people like to make it special by dressing up. Others prefer to be more casual. Opening nights of each opera tend to be a bit more dressy (you will see more tuxes and long dresses) and matinees a bit more casual.
One suggestion: it does tend to be cool in the theater (especially in the orchestra section) and so a sweater or wrap might be helpful.
Where do I park?
There is limited on-street parking near the Sarasota Opera House. There are several parking garages in close proximity to the theater, including the Palm Avenue Garage (1289 N. Palm Ave.) which is directly behind the Sarasota Opera House.
Valet parking is also available for all evening and weekend matinee performances. Valet parking is complimentary for subscribers and donors. Otherwise the cost is $10.
For more information please visit https://www.sarasotaopera.org/parking.