A Dino-mite World Premiere Sunday Afternoon

Dinosaurs and music? Yes, indeed!

Dr. Jon Ceander Mitchell, a retired music professor and orchestral conductor who resides in Franklin, also has a strong interest in dinosaurs and paleontology. During the pandemic he got the idea of combining his interests to tell the story of a self-educated 19th century Englishwoman who became one of the world's first paleontologists. 

With financial support from the Franklin Cultural District Committee, Mary Anning: Fossil Hunter, a Chamber Orchestra, will have its world premiere in the intimate venue of the Franklin First Universalist Society on Chestnut Street today.

In an email to the Claflin Hill Orchestra Community, director Paul Surapine gave the production, which has been in rehearsal recently, a glowing review:

'Mary Anning: Fossil Hunter' IS a compelling and interesting story, sung and told well with a good cast and small chamber ensemble of great musicians.

The music is accessible and enjoyable!!!

Fun to play and fun to hear! Jon has integrated his love of English Folk Song melodies into a sound tapestry that supports and envelopes the story telling of the cast.

Definitely worth a Sunday afternoon of experiencing a brand new art work come to life created by a small vibrant group of interconnected local musician/artists!

And you’ll have fun learning something very interesting from history!!!!

It makes one think of the original Greek dramas, done in the small amphitheaters of small Greek towns, telling stories to each with musicians, singers and chorus!

Bravo, Jon!

The event is at 3:00 p.m. on Sunday, June 9 at First Universalist Society of Franklin, 236 Chestnut Street, Franklin. Donations Accepted. There will also be a 2:30 p.m. pre-opera talk by dinosaur specialist, Dr. David Fastovsky!