"Benjamin's Ring" tells the enduring story of Richard Wagner's four opera cycle, "The Ring of the Nibelung." This is a timeless story of mystery, fantasy and myth as it is seen through Benjamin's eyes and written for today's young readers who enjoy action and adventure tales. The characters in The Ring (as the cycle is known) include the heavenly world of Nordic Gods, an underworld of evil dwarfs, mortals, a magic sword, a supernatural ring that carries a death curse, mysterious fire, giants, dragons and the eternal battle between good and evil. Utilizing many of Wagner's original stage directions and his libretto, Ben's mother narrates the story and answers Ben's questions. She also explains why Wagner's music is world famous and how opera can be a total theatrical experience for people of any age.
Here's what opera stars Deborah Voigt and Michelle DeYoung wrote about "Benjamin's Ring":
"I found "Benjamin's Ring" to be an engaging and charming re-telling of Wagner's Ring Cycle libretto."
Deborah Voigt, International Operatic Soprano
""Benjamin's Ring" is a wonderful introduction into the world of Wagner's Ring cycle. It is entertaining and informative. I would recommend it for kids that enjoy fantastical stories, but also for anyone preparing to see the Ring for the first time. The illustrations by Geoffrey Moss are beautiful, and the perfect accompaniment to the story."
Michelle DeYoung, 3 Time Grammy Award Winning Classical and Operatic Mezzo-Soprano