'BABAR' SET TO MUSIC

An illustration from "Babar"

Sunday, the Southeast Chamber Players present an unusual multimedia performance of Francis Poulenc's "The Story of Babar the Elephant," music inspired by the classic children's book.

Poulenc based a ballet on the original story, which was published in 1939. Dr. Ann Porter Gifford will read the story while images from the book are projected onto a screen.

The performance will be presented at 3 p.m. at Old St. Vincent's Church.

Also on the program is Charles Gounod's "Petite Symphony," one of the most popular pieces of chamber music ever written. The group also will perform Seven Dances After the Ballet "Les Malheurs de Sophie" by Jean Francaix, a piece based on a French children's book.

Arlet Finney will translate the narration.

The Southeast Chamber Players consist of about 20 musicians who include university faculty and students along with community music teachers. Dr. Robert Gifford directs.

This program is targeted for children but Gifford said, "It's the kind of story and music that would be enjoyed by any age."

The program will be presented again Monday in Academic Auditorium for students from Franklin, May Greene and Washington schools.