Cautionary Tales presented by Opera Collective Ireland
About Cautionary Tales
Opera Collective Ireland presents the Irish premiere of Errollyn Wallen’s mischievous family opera – Cautionary Tales
Touring Dublin, Louth and Meath | 13 – 21 September 2025
Too much screen time? Cautionary Tales is your cheeky antidote – a fast-paced, wickedly funny opera for children aged 7+ and their grown-ups, packed with music, mischief, and moral twists.
Brought to life by Opera Collective Ireland, this clever new production is based on Hilaire Belloc’s delightfully dark poems. You’ll meet the likes of Matilda (who told lies), Jim (who ran away), and Rebecca (who slammed doors), as their outrageous tales unfold through Errollyn Wallen’s brilliantly catchy score.
Featuring Leanne Fitzgerald (mezzo), Eiméar Harper (soprano), William Pearson (tenor), and Dylan Rooney (baritone) – and directed by Sarah Baxter with conductor Stephen Barlow, the production boasts playful design by Zia Bergin-Holly (set and lighting) and costumes by Jenny Whyte.
In collaboration with The Lir Academy, this is live theatre that’s as sharp as it is fun – perfect for curious young minds and adults who enjoy a bit of mischief.
• Cautionary Tales is suitable for children aged 7+, families, and school groups.
• Special schools rates available at Civic Theatre Tallaght - teachers go free.
• Family package rates available at all venues for groups of 4 or 5.
• A free Culture Night performance takes place at Solstice Arts Centre, Navan – pre-booking essential.
• Buy One Adult Ticket, Get One Child Ticket Free offer is available for the family performance at Civic Theatre, Tallaght.
Mermaid Arts Centre, Bray, Co Wicklow
Opens: Saturday 13 September @ 8.00pm / €17 - €20/ Family Package Rates available
Box Office - Tel: 01 272 4030 / https://www.mermaidartscentre.ie/whats-on/events/cautionary-tales-for-children
Civic Theatre, Tallaght, Co Dublin
Tuesday 16 September @ 10:30am + 1.00pm / €20 (Schools shows only)
Wednesday 17 September @ 7.00pm / €20 (Families + General Public) / Family Package Rates available
Box Office - Tel: 01 462 7477 / https://www.civictheatre.ie/whats-on/cautionary-tales-presented-by-opera-collective-ireland/
Solstice Arts Centre, Navan, Co Meath
Friday 19 September @ 7.00pm / FREE – Culture Night
Box Office - Tel: 046 909 2300 / https://solsticeartscentre.ie/event/culture-night-cautionary-tales
An Táin Arts Centre, Dundalk, Co Louth
Sunday 21 September @ 3.00pm / €17 - €20 / Family Package Rates available
Box Office - Tel: 042 933 2332 / https://www.antain.ie/event/cautionary-tales/
Running Time: 50 mins approx. (no interval)
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