Downtown Music Presents: Bon Appétit!

Bon Appétit! Julia Child, “The French Chef” (mezzo-soprano Hailey McAvoy), bakes a flourless chocolate cake before your very eyes in this truly special creation by the American composer, Lee Hoiby. Heralded as “funny and strangely adorable” by the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, the opera was written for the actress Jean Stapleton, and premiered at the Kennedy Center. The recipe comes from Child herself, with a little help from librettist Mark Shulgasser, who transcribed two episodes of Child’s beloved television show. Pianist Bethany Pietroniro helps in the kitchen. A reception for lovers of chocolate follows.