Based on Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s world-famous story The Gruffalo, Iván Fischer composed a humorous children’s opera commissioned by the Konzerthaus Berlin. Now, in Ádám Nádasdy’s translation, Hungarian audiences will have the chance to see it for the first time.

Iván Fischer’s recommendation:

“I would recommend this opera especially to children aged 3–12 and their families, particularly those who already know and love the story of the Gruffalo.

The adventures of the clever little mouse and the terribly dangerous giant creature called the Gruffalo – whom the mouse imagines, only for him to come to life – have become a favourite children’s story in many countries. This half-hour opera is an ideal first introduction to opera. Afterwards, children can have their photos taken with Mouse, the Gruffalo, Owl, Fox or Snake.

I wrote this children’s opera on commission from the Konzerthaus Berlin, and now we are finally presenting it in Hungary in Ádám Nádasdy’s wonderful translation. Sadly, Ádám did not live to see the premiere, but it was his wish that the title character’s name should be pronounced with a ‘u’ sound, 'Gruffalo', because it sounds better, scarier and funnier than 'Graffalo'.

I wish children and adults alike a wonderful time.”