Cape Town Opera invites families, school learners and first-time opera audiences to experience the enchanting world of The Cunning Little Vixen when the production takes to the stage at the Joseph Stone Auditorium in Athlone from 21 to 26 July 2026. Designed as an accessible introduction to opera, the production combines engaging storytelling, physical theatre, imaginative visuals and striking animal costumes to create an entertaining theatrical experience that appeals to audiences of all ages. By presenting the opera in English, Cape Town Opera continues its commitment to making the art form more approachable and relevant for local communities.
The production features a new English adaptation by Cape Town Opera’s recently appointed Librettist in Residence, Alan Olejniczak, with Jan Hugo serving as Musical Director. It also marks the operatic directorial debut of Fiona du Plooy, whose previous work as movement director has enhanced productions including Tosca, Suor Angelica and Le nozze di Figaro. The award-winning creative team includes Associate Director Tara Notcutt, costume designer Maritha Visagie, masks and make-up designer Clanelle Burger, set and lighting designer Kieran McGregor, and choreographer Cleo Notcutt-Williams. On stage, Cape Town Opera’s Vocal Ensemble and Judith Neilson Young Artists bring the woodland setting to life alongside guest artists Siphamandla Moyake as Sharp Ears, Nica Reinke as Gold Stripe, Thandolwethu Longo as the Owl, Mandisinde Mbuyazwe as the Poacher and Dumisa Masoka as the Hen. Cape Town Opera House Soloists Nonhlanhla Yende and Conroy Scott appear as the Forester and the Forester’s Wife, joined by members of the Cape Town Opera Children’s Chorus portraying dragonflies, fox cubs, crickets, hedgehogs and frogs.
At the heart of the story is a spirited young fox determined to live freely in the forest. Along the way she encounters a colourful cast of animals and humans, discovering lessons about friendship, courage, love and the beauty of the natural world. Filled with humour, warmth and adventure, the production celebrates kindness and bravery while offering a memorable introduction to opera for young audiences and theatre lovers alike. Its blend of music, movement and visual storytelling makes it an ideal family outing during the winter school holiday period.
Performances take place at the Joseph Stone Auditorium from 21 to 24 July at 11:00, with two daily performances on 25 and 26 July at 11:00 and 14:00. Tickets are priced at R80 per person, making this an affordable opportunity for families, schools and first-time theatre-goers to experience one of Cape Town Opera’s most accessible productions. With its imaginative staging, talented cast and universal themes, The Cunning Little Vixen promises to introduce a new generation to the magic of opera while delivering an entertaining theatrical adventure for audiences of every age.
Tickets are available through Webtickets. Group bookings can be made directly through Cape Town Opera at booking@capetownopera.co.za.
