What goes into determining the perfect title for our original opera? As company members ponder a catchy title that will grab the attention of the audience, they generate ideas based on the following criteria.
The title should entice audience members, evoking questions and thoughts about what will transpire on stage. It should capture the essence of our theme and thesis or central message without divulging too much of the story. The title should connect in some way to our setting and present a powerful metaphor on which to ruminate. Via paradox, play on words, alliteration or other literary element, a profound title emerges.
With various suggestions to consider, Harness the Stars was left to study all possibilities and come to consensus. They could select one of the ideas previously stated, or construct a new idea to present to the company. Either way, a plausible defense would be necessary to prove the title worthy. All were expected to be prepared for this decision making process, upon entering the classroom the next day.
Due to weather emergency, school was cancelled the following day. From home, as I sat sipping my morning coffee and working frantically on the computer to salvage the missed instructional day, I noticed a new entry for the title assignment on Google Classroom. Aedan, who had been silent in this workspace until now, offered an opera title and justified its relevance. As I considered his idea, I saw multiple possibilities to connect, reflect on and incorporate the criteria stated above.
First thing the next morning, I presented Aedan’s contribution to the company. Company members loved it. They discussed and defended it. They unanimously accepted it as the title for our opera.
