Dream Big, an original, family-friendly musical tale — made possible by a $25,000 grant from the Missouri Humanities Council — premieres in May 2026 at the historic Gillioz Theatre. It's a story that brings to life the inspiring story of Missouri’s own giantess, Ella “Kate” Ewing.

This heartfelt tribute is inspired by the remarkable life of Ella Kate Ewing — “The Missouri Giantess” — a towering 8’4” woman who defied the odds to
become a beloved star of the Barnum and Bailey Circus in the early 20th century.
This new work is made possible by a generous $25,000 Semiquincentennial Grant from the Missouri Humanities Council, supporting the commission, creation, premiere, and touring of the opera for free, public performances aimed at 3rd to 5th grade students.

Based on the award-winning children’s book Stand Straight, Ella Kate by acclaimed Missouri author Kate Klise, Dream Big blends storytelling and original folk-inspired music to honor Ella’s story of resilience, courage, and self-acceptance. Klise will pen the libretto, with music by Ruell Chappell of the Ozark Mountain Daredevils, and folk ensemble arrangements by composer Katie Kring. At its heart, the production ensures schools and communities nationwide can share Ella’s legacy for years to come.

“This project is an amazing, but true Missouri story, and a reminder to all children that who you are is enough — and that even the biggest, TALLEST dreams can come true,” said Sean Spyres, General Director of OLO.

The opera’s educational component includes a curriculum aligned with Missouri’s Department of Education 3rd grade standards, particularly its “Character Traits and Civic Attitudes of Famous Missourians” framework. Students will also have the chance to engage with historians and humanitarian experts through interactive online and in-person events that explore themes of resilience, diversity, and empowerment.

Ella Kate Ewing, born in the small Missouri town of Rainbow in Scotland County, rose from a life of rural obscurity to become a national figure. Despite being bullied and misunderstood due to her extraordinary height — caused by a condition now known as gigantism — Ella embraced a life of adventure. She traveled across the U.S. with circus shows and World’s Fairs, paid off her family’s farm, and built her own custom-designed dream home in Gorin, Missouri.

Dream Big is part of Ozarks Lyric Opera’s 2025–26 season, which also features La Bohème, Master Class, and The Sound of Music starring internationally acclaimed tenor and OLO Artistic Director Michael Spyres. Season and individual ticket information available soon.

(Illustration by Sarah Klise from "Stand Straight, Ella Kate")

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