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Rolling Meadows, Illinois: Puppet Opera in Focus

RoadsideAmerica.com Team Field Report

Rolling Meadows Park District Headquarters

Address:
3000 Central Ave., Rolling Meadows, IL
Directions:
In the basement of the Rolling Meadows Park District Headquarters. From I-90 exit onto Hwy 53. Drive north one quick exit to Algonquin Rd. Drive east and take the second left onto Barker Ave., then turn right onto Central Rd. The park headquarters will be on the left, across from the tennis courts.
Hours:
Shows are W 4, Sa 1:30. Reservations required. (Call to verify) Local health policies may affect hours and access.
Phone:
847-818-3220
Admission:
Adults $14.
RA Rates:
Major Fun
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Puppet Opera in Focus.

Puppet Opera in Focus

Puppets perform opera scenes and show tunes in their own custom theater. Unique rod puppets are like little cyborgs. Backstage tour after each show. Only puppet opera in the U.S.

Roadsideamerica.com Report... [02/20/2022]

Visitor Tips and News About Puppet Opera in Focus

Reports and tips from RoadsideAmerica.com visitors and Roadside America mobile tipsters. Some tips may not be verified. Submit your own tip.

Opera In Focus.

Opera In Focus

Unbelievable, totally unexpected. In the basement of a park district building. From the moment you step into the elevator and descend into the ornate theater below you are transported into a magic world of unique patented action-rod puppets singing opera and show tune excerpts. And there's a backstage tour after the show.

[Monica Guillaume, 11/04/2017]

Puppet stage.

Puppet Opera in Focus

While reservations for the Puppet Opera are "recommended," they are not required. When we went there were many empty seats. It really is a very interesting show and backstage tour for both adults and children. Some of the vignettes might be difficult for young children to understand, but the puppets will hold their interest.

[Chuck, 08/02/2015]
Puppet Opera

Our family went to the Puppet Opera Thanksgiving weekend, as we were in Chicago and on our way back home. Two kids and two adults, and we all enjoyed it. My only tip is that it is hard for kids to see if they are in the front row. Sit back a few rows and then be prepared to enjoy an amazing show unlike anything you have ever seen.

An extra bonus was a backstage tour after the show was over. We enjoyed Hansel and Gretel but I am sure any show they put on would be fabulous. If ever in the area again we would put this on our list of "must sees."

[Kristi, 11/28/2011]

Opera in Focus sign.

Puppet Opera in Focus

On our recent family visit to Chicago, my daughter and I attended a performance of Opera in Focus, and were mesmerized! It's a miniature Opera House where famous Operas are performed by incredible Puppets that look and move exactly like real people! It is completely amazing. Personally, I have never been too fond of Opera, but you will be surprised by how articulate and lifelike these puppets are. Your jaw will drop. The elaborate sets that the puppets perform in look exactly like real places. The attention to detail is astounding! The invisible puppet orchestra is conducted by an Arturo Toscanini look-alike, and the illusion of real opera is even further realized by puppet spectators viewing the performance from balconies. My daughter was also in awe of the performance, & has been begging to go back ever since, so it's also great for kids.

[Ronald Brewster, 06/03/2003]

Nearby Offbeat Places

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In the region:
Busy Beaver Button Museum, Chicago, IL - 19 mi.

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