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CORVALLIS - The Oregon State University Opera Workshop and Opera Theater Corvallis will present Seymour Barab's "Sleeping Beauty" on Thursday, Feb. 27, at LaSells Stewart Center. The performance will begin at 5:30 p.m.

This musical adaptation of "Sleeping Beauty" follows the traditional fairy tale, but with unexpected comic twists and turns.

Prince Charming scolds the courtiers of the kingdom for their pessimistic attitude and enlists a noisy chorus of birds to demonstrate that one should approach life cheerfully. The witch, as in the traditional story, casts a spell on the princess because she feels slighted at not being invited to the infant's birthday party. But in Barab's version, we learn that the witch has a long history of acting from an exaggerated sense of fairness.

A prolific composer of ballet scores, instrumental pieces, and song cycles, Barab is especially known for his works for children. In addition to "Sleeping Beauty" he composed the operas "Cinderella," "The Toy Shop" and "Little Red Riding Hood." Their tuneful musical style and clever librettos have made them among the most frequently performed children's pieces in America.

While Barab's complete "Sleeping Beauty" is a full-length opera, this performance offers an abridged, 50-minute version of the story, suitable for small children. Stage director David Howell will narrate the story. Brian Conatser is the pianist and musical director. The producer is Richard Poppino, director of vocal studies at OSU.

Admission is $10 for adults, $3 for children under 12. Tickets are available at Grass Roots Books and Music and Emporium Department Store in Corvallis, and at Sid Stevens Jewelers in Albany. They are also available at the door. The box office opens one hour before the performance.

For more information, call 541-737-4061.