Mid Wales Opera’s fifth SmallStages tour kicks off our Fairy Tale season with Catalan composer Montsalvatge’s beautifully crafted one-act version of the familiar tale of ‘Puss in Boots’, El Gato con botas.

Premiered in Barcelona in 1948, and rarely performed, this age-old children’s story tells of the wealth-seeking, match-making cat who, in return for a hat, a sword and a pair of boots, secures for his young master (a lowly miller) a kingdom and a royal marriage to a princess, tricking a slow-witted ogre out of his castle along the way. 

From its opening Montsalvatge’s music is energetic, tuneful and full of catchy rhythms, lush melodies and feline musical effects! This new MWO production is perfect for family audiences, and a great way to introduce youngsters to opera. MWO’s production features 5 singers and 5 musicians, singing in English with a new chamber arrangement by Jonathan Lyness. The second half will feature a cabaret-style collection of popular and entertaining musical items featuring all singers and musicians.