Opera connects generations: Cologne program delights young and old!

Opera connects generations: Cologne program delights young and old!

The Cologne Opera wants to bring a breath of fresh air into hearts and minds. With its educational program “Oper.Stadt.Schule”, which has been in existence for almost 30 years, the institution primarily wants to inspire children and young people about the exciting world of opera. But the initiative has now developed significantly. In addition to the young target group, the program now also appeals to people from all age groups as well as those with disabilities or health restrictions. Stephanie Sonnenschein, the director of the program, explains the goal: “We want everyone to have the opportunity to experience the opera and help shape it.” reports the Rundschau.

Exciting offers for the future

The “Oper.Stadt.Schule” team already has exciting new offers up its sleeve for the coming 2025/26 season. Among other things, “tours with all the senses” are planned, which are aimed at people aged six and over. These tours are not only designed to be barrier-free, but are also offered in simple language. This makes the experience easier for people with special needs. In addition, the “Unisono” project is celebrating its fifth anniversary this year, where the focus is once again on the exchange between generations: preschool children regularly visit seniors in residential facilities to prepare an opera performance together reports the Cologne Opera.

Cultural participation for everyone

The importance of cultural participation is becoming increasingly obvious due to the challenges facing cultural institutions. People with disabilities should be able to independently choose what suits them. Achieving this requires creative and courageous ideas like this Department for Cultural Participation emphasized. It is important to identify barriers, both physical and mental, and to find solutions through dialogue with those affected. Networks are intended to promote inclusion and participation - a task that requires courage and perseverance.

Invitation to create together

The program not only makes it easier to access opera, but also to engage with the art form itself. This includes experiences with music, philosophical questions and visual elements. The Cologne Opera warmly invites people to help shape the art form. Understanding of dementia is also promoted; the institution offers special performances for people with dementia writes the Rundschau.

The interaction between young and old, encounters with the opera and the promotion of cultural exchange are crucial steps that the Cologne Opera is taking to inspire the population of Cologne for the fascinating world of opera. An exciting time lies ahead of us, and those involved certainly have the ability to take all age groups on this impressive journey.