Toledo Opera invites the public to a free community performance of “The Bear Who Couldn’t Fish” on Sunday, Nov. 9, at 4 p.m., at Epworth United Methodist Church, 4855 W. Central Ave., Toledo. The performance will be followed by a cookies-and-punch reception and a meet-and-greet with the artists. All are welcome to attend.
“The Bear Who Couldn’t Fish” is an original children’s opera with music written by Matthew Fossa, and the libretto and book written by Joshua Borths. The production is directed by Toledo Opera General Director James M. Norman. “The Bear Who Couldn’t Fish” is presented as the 2025 production of Toledo Opera’s award-winning Opera On Wheels program, a 40-year educational outreach initiative that brings live opera directly to schools and community venues across northwest Ohio and southeast Michigan. Each year, Opera On Wheels reaches more than 18,000 students with productions that introduce new audiences to the art form.
The 2025 production tells the story of Mato, a young bear struggling to remember how to fish. Along his journey, he meets a cast of animal friends who help him discover the value of perseverance, curiosity, and respect for nature. Set in the Great Lakes ecosystem, “The Bear Who Couldn’t Fish” blends humor, heart, and environmental awareness in a musical journey for children and families.
“The Bear Who Couldn’t Fish” is performed by Toledo Opera’s 2025-26 cohort of resident artists: Sarah Rachel Bacani, soprano; Danielle Casós, mezzo soprano; Brady DelVecchio, tenor; Rick Hale, baritone; and Yura Jang, pianist. Chosen from a national pool of more than 150 applications for a one-year residency in Toledo, these artists bring talent and skill to the program.
“Our resident artists bring such an incredible energy and artistry to this production,” said Norman. “‘The Bear Who Couldn’t Fish’ is a delightful way for families to experience opera together – it’s funny, heartfelt, and beautifully performed. We’re so proud to share the talents of these young professionals with our community through Opera On Wheels.”
“We’re so excited to bring this joyful performance to Epworth and to share it with families across our community, said June Galvin, Toledo Opera board member and member of Epworth United Methodist Church. “Opera can tell powerful stories in fun and unexpected ways, and this event is a wonderful opportunity for children to experience the magic of live music.”
The event is free and open to the public. For more information about Opera On Wheels, visit toledoopera.org.
By continuing to use our site, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.