GILPIN COUNTY — Opera isn't just for grown-ups. On Sunday, October 18, 2026, Central City Opera and Opera Colorado will bring a children's opera to Lincoln Hills, with a story about a young girl who has a lot going on in her life.

“Earth to Kenzie” is a 45-minute performance beginning at 1 p.m. at the Dr. Nathaniel Howard Outdoor Classroom, located at 255 Pactolus Lake Road north of Black Hawk.

Kenzie is a fifth grader who loves video games and has a vivid imagination. But things aren't going so well for her in real life. She and her mother have moved into a family shelter, and she's having a hard time adjusting. She also has asthma, which doesn't make living any easier.

In her favorite video game, though, Kenzie can travel through space with her avatar, Edwin. It's a place where she can forget about her troubles for a while. As the story unfolds, she learns about friendship, bravery, and what having a home really means.

The opera was written for elementary school children, but parents and grandparents may enjoy it just as much. Composer Frances Pollock and librettist Jessica Murphy Moo created the work, which premiered in Chicago in 2019.

The performance is in English and features four singers and a pianist. At just 45 minutes, it could be a good first opera for children who haven't experienced one before.

The Dr. Nathaniel Howard III Outdoor Classroom creates space for learning and exploration at Lincoln Hills.

Photo by Wes Isenhart

Instead of a traditional opera house, families can enjoy the show outdoors at Lincoln Hills, surrounded by the mountains.

Tickets are $30 per person. An optional guided tour of Lincoln Hills begins at 11:30 a.m. before the performance.

For tickets and more information, visit Central City Opera's Lincoln Hills event page at Lincoln Hills Events - Central City Opera.