Inspired by the whimsical stories of Carl Sandburg, Rootabaga Country follows Gimme the Ax and his two children, Please Gimme and Ax Me No Questions, on a fantastical journey through a world filled with imagination, humor, and heart. Along the way, they discover unexpected friendships, unforgettable adventures, and new understandings of family, belonging, and home.

Host Hallie Geyh sits down with Peters to discuss the creation of the opera and its journey from inspiration to libretto and score. Then, Director Martha Collins and Conductor Jessè Martins share how Sarasota Youth Opera's talented young artists bring this imaginative world to life on stage.

Together, these conversations offer a behind-the-scenes look at the collaborative process that transforms an opera from page to stage.

Rootabaga Country will be performed at the Sarasota Opera House on November 7 at 5:00 p.m. and November 8 at 12:00 p.m.

Special thanks to the Les and Carol Brualdi Foundation for their generous support of Sarasota Youth Opera and Rootabaga Country.

First, director and choreographer Felicity Stiverson shares how her background in dance, musical theater, and opera shapes her vision for the production, including a special collaboration with Sarasota Ballet School and Conservatory. Then, Sarasota Opera favorite Lisa Chavez joins the podcast to discuss taking on the role of the Witch, one of opera's most memorable villains.

Whether you're a lifelong opera lover, a parent introducing a child to live performance, or simply someone who enjoys a great story, this episode explores the magic, music, and imagination behind Hansel and Gretel.

Learn more and purchase tickets at SarasotaOpera.org.

Behind the Blue Curtain is the official podcast of Sarasota Opera, bringing audiences behind the scenes with the artists, productions, and stories that make opera come alive.

In this episode of Behind the Blue Curtain, host Hallie Geyh sits down with Sarasota Opera Director of Production Scott Keclik and Production Stage Manager Francesca MacBeth to explore the hidden world of opera production. From coordinating hundreds of artists and technicians to managing scene changes, rehearsals, and opening night, they reveal what it takes to bring a season of opera to life and why the work audiences never see is just as important as what happens on stage.

A member of the Sarasota Opera family since 1989, Russell reflects on his journey from apprentice artist to company leader and shares his vision for the future of the company. Together, Hallie and Richard explore the 2026–27 season, the balance between honoring tradition and embracing variety, and the unique power of opera to tell deeply human stories.

From Hänsel and Gretel and Rootabaga Country to La traviata, H.M.S. Pinafore, Ariadne auf Naxos, and Jenůfa, this conversation offers an introduction to Sarasota Opera's next chapter and the artists, productions, and experiences that await audiences in the season ahead.

Whether you're a longtime opera lover or attending for the first time, this episode explores what it means to show up, share a live experience, and be part of a community brought together through music and storytelling.

Whether you love this operetta or are discovering The Merry Widow for the first time, this episode offers a lively and insightful look at the humor, heart, and artistry behind the production.

Host Martha Collins sits down with Artistic Director Maestro Victor DeRenzi to explore Mozart’s emotional depth and Sarasota Opera’s bold commitment to presenting works exactly as the composer intended — a rare and refreshingly authentic approach in today’s opera world.

Then, she chats with opera stars Virginia Mims and Filippo Fontana about the excitement of opening night, the magic of ensemble performance, and why Così fan tutte is the perfect gateway to opera: full of humor, relatable characters, and musical moments that resonate with audiences of all ages.

They share their first full-length opera experience at Sarasota Opera, reflect on the emotional power of live performance, and discuss why opera is more accessible than many think. From the talent on stage to the timeless stories, the Henry sisters make a compelling case that opera is for everyone.