Lines of Inquiry: Our Revision of the Story

In our original post, we asked a series of questions related to the book. Now we are asking these questions as they relate to our 2009 revision of the opera.

What do you think about the story?:

1) What are some real-life examples (historically and internationally) of how being virtuous like Iris has paid off in real life?

2) Some say the wedding is not the end of the story but the beginning. Do you agree? Why or why not?

3) In what ways is the Prince a role model for smart young men?

4) In what ways does this story have all the “parts” of a fairy tale? What’s missing? What’s totally different from a typical fairy tale, in your opinion?

5) In what ways does Iris’s relationship with the birds help the world around him (his community)?

6) Can you find other examples — in other stories, or in real life?

7) Can you think of any other fairy tales have the same relationships between family members? (Ask friends and family)

8) Can you think of any other stories can you find where birds play a large role?
(Ask friends and family)

Creative Response to the Opera

Here are some ideas for students to explore creatively after viewing the opera.

1. Create a costume design for your ideal version of the Language of Birds

2. Create a set design for your ideal version of the Language of Birds

3. Write and perform a cover version of one of the arias or choruses

4. Create a mock news report about the story

5. Try a skit or improv about the story