Join us for the family-friendly world premiere of three brand-new short operas that bring Aesop’s timeless fables vividly to life in the spectacular setting of Clonard Monastery. Written especially for young performers, Aesop’s Fables is a joyful youth opera project that reimagines ancient stories through music, movement and ensemble storytelling. The three operas are created by Northern Ireland–based composers, selected as winners of Ulster Touring Opera’s PRS Foundation Talent Development Fund Open Call, and will premiere on the opening day of the Belfast Children’s Festival 2026.
The performances are presented by the Ulster Youth Opera branches in Enniskillen and Belfast, alongside the Allegri Junior Choir from Derry~Londonderry. Together, these young singers form a vibrant youth opera ensemble at the heart of the production. They are joined by professional Northern Irish soprano Rebecca Murphy and accompanied by Queen’s University Belfast’s resident chamber ensemble, Hard Rain SoloistEnsemble. The chorus is further enhanced through a special East–West collaboration with Welsh National Youth Opera, whose alumni travel sustainably to Belfast to take part in the premiere.
The production brings together three short operas, each with its own distinct musical voice and theatrical style. Before each opera begins, local actor Christina Nelson introduces the fable, helping audiences of all ages to follow how each composer has transformed the story into opera.
A witty, energetic tale about patience, perseverance and quiet determination.
Composer: Áine Mallon
Director: Shannen McNeice
A playful exploration of strength, kindness and cooperation.
Composer: Anita Mawhinney
Director: Paddy McEnearney
A powerful story about trust, consequences and the importance of honesty.
Composer: Anselm McDonnell
Director: Shannen McNeice
Together, these works create a fast-moving, accessible introduction to opera, designed to delight and engage both children and adults alike.
Venue: Clonard Monastery, Belfast
Date: Saturday 7 March 2026
Performance 1: 2.30pm
Performance 2: 4.00pm
Age guidance: Suitable for families and children aged 6+
Participants took part in creative workshops, developing musical, dramatic and ensemble skills within a fully supported professional environment. The project prioritises inclusion, confidence-building and wellbeing, particularly for young people from areas with limited access to large-scale arts experiences. Audiences are invited to experience opera in a welcoming, relaxed setting, making Aesop’s Fables an ideal first encounter with the art form for families and first-time opera-goers.
Ulster Touring Opera is a PRS Foundation Talent Development Network Partner supported by PPL. Aesop’s Fables is also supported by the National Lottery through the Arts Council of Northern Ireland as well as the Department for Communities, Belfast City Council and The Northern Ireland Office Connect Fund.
