Czech composer, musical theorist and folklorist Leos Janácek’s (1854-1928) THE CUNNING LITTLE VIXEN, first performed in 1924, features a huge, lush, romantic  score.

This work  tells the story of a beautiful, glorious vixen and the Forester who tries to tame and contain her.

Pacific Opera ‘s current impressive revival, performed in English, sees Michael Campbell directing with the very accomplished Alexander Briger conducting an outstanding Sydney Youth Orchestra.

Two of Australia’s finest young performers, Alexandra Flood  and  Alexander Knight, play the two leads with Ela Ray Markstein playing gypsy girl Terynka and Michael Gioiello as the Schoolmaster also impressing in substantial roles. A large ensemble cast lend great support.

Musical  highlights include the Act 1 female chorus of the Battery Hens, the Act 2 love duet between the Vixen and her best friend, and the glorious closing apotheosis for the Forester which is a vast blessing for all life.

This tableau opera explores some major themes,- the sacredness  and guiding force of love, and the credo that goes back to the Bible (Ecclesiastes 3:2- to everything there is a season)- that everything has its time and timing.

It is a quirky, fascinating, almost at times surreal piece- there are characters who transform  from human beings into animals, a Doctor injects a sedative and  becomes a mosquito drinking blood, objects transform- tables become dog kennels, umbrellas become sunflowers….

Well worth a visit, Pacific Opera, Sydney Youth Orchestra and Sydney Grammar School presentation of Leos Janacek’s THE CUNNING LITTLE VIXEN has only one further performance, tonight (Saturday 3 October) at the very impressive New Hall, Sydney Grammar School, Yurong Street Darlinghurst. This is the first Opera to be performed in this stunning new theatre. Bookings- http://www.cityrecitalhall.com or 82562222.