A tale of nature, freedom and life’s eternal cycle comes to Limerick in February
Irish National Opera presents Leoš Janácek’s enchanting opera The Cunning Little Vixen at the Lime Tree Theatre on Saturday February 7 at 7.30pm.
The production follows a young fox captured by chance who uses her courage and cunning to escape back to the wild forest. Through Janácek’s evocative score—woven with rich folk melodies and playful humour—the opera explores the cycle of life rather than presenting a simple fairy tale.
American soprano Amber Norelai stars as the Vixen, with Irish soprano Jade Phoenix as the Fox and Irish baritone Benjamin Russell as the Forester.
Director Sophie Motley, who previously helmed Werther (2023) for Irish National Opera, describes the work as exploring “the cycle of life and death” whilst celebrating “the joy of being told a story”.
Costume designer Saileóg O’Halloran emphasised the production’s accessible, vibrant approach: “We wanted to have fun… we want it to be colourful and vibrant and accessible to kids as well as constant opera goers.”
Sung in English with English surtitles, the performance features the Irish National Opera orchestra and chorus. Tickets: €30/€27 from limetreebelltable.ie