Marking World Opera Day, Cascais Opera presents a new production of O Anel do Unicórnio – Uma Ópera em Miniatura, reaffirming its commitment to introducing opera to younger generations. The initiative includes three free performances for schools in the municipality of Cascais.
Cascais Opera brings O Anel do Unicórnio – Uma Ópera em Miniatura back to the stage in a new production, featuring direction by Rita Calçada Bastos, redesigned sets and costumes, and new cast members. With a libretto by Ana Lázaro and music by Martim Sousa Tavares, the work returns with the same story, reimagined for a new generation of young audiences.
This production reflects an important aspect of Cascais Opera’s mission: nurturing new audiences and giving children the opportunity to discover opera from an early age. Alongside its International Singing Competition, which brings young singers from across the world to Cascais and supports the development of emerging talent, Cascais Ópera also invests in initiatives that open up the operatic world to those who may be encountering this art form for the first time.
Revisiting works created for young audiences allows them to be presented to new generations through fresh artistic approaches, preserving their musical and narrative identity while exploring new possibilities in staging, set design and performance. The aim goes beyond presenting a show for children: it is about creating a first artistic encounter that sparks curiosity, stimulates the imagination and can foster a lasting connection with opera.
A miniature opera that opens the door to the operatic world
In O Anel do Unicórnio, the disappearance of Don Giovanni, Faustina Balão’s cat, sets off a chain of misunderstandings in a family where life seems to unfold like an opera. A very special ring, disguises and magic tricks all contribute to a playful and accessible introduction to the operatic world. By playfully exploring opera’s conventions, characters and situations, the production reveals an art form that can be engaging, surprising and full of humour.
World Opera Day: investing in the future of opera
Presenting O Anel do Unicórnio in October, the month in which World Opera Day is celebrated on 25 October, gives the initiative particular significance. Celebrating opera also means securing its future by creating opportunities for new generations to discover it, experience it and develop a lasting relationship with this art form.
As part of the initiative, Cascais Opera is offering three free performances for schools in the municipality, strengthening the project’s educational dimension and commitment to access to culture. The production also welcomes families, inviting them to discover an art form that brings together music, singing and theatre.
With O Anel do Unicórnio, Cascais Opera extends its work beyond the competition stage, recognising the development of new audiences as an essential part of opera’s future. Discovering new voices is vital, but ensuring that future generations are there to listen to them is just as important.
