THE SEAL-WOMAN
The Scots Opera Project presents
The Seal-Woman
A Celtic Folk Opera in two acts
By Marjory Kennedy-Fraser & Granville Bantock
The Scots Opera Project presents Marjory Kennedy-Fraser’s and Granville Bantock’s Celtic folk opera, The Seal-Woman. This opera, which was first performed in 1924, is based on the folk legend of the mythical Selkie and is inspired and created from songs of the Scottish Hebrides.
On an uninhabited islet in the Western Isles, an old crone or ‘Cailleach’ sings of local legends of seals that turn into mortal women. In this legendary tale of two worlds intertwined, The Seal-Woman features some well-known Scottish favourites, such as An Eriskay Love Lilt, The Seal Woman’s Sea Joy and Sea Sounds, making this the perfect opera for newcomers and seasoned opera goers alike.
The title role will be performed by former Scottish Opera Emerging Artist and BBC Cardiff Singer of the World competitor mezzo-soprano, Sioned Gwen Davies. The lovesick Islesman, who prevents The Seal-Woman from returning to the sea, will be played by Ayrshire tenor, David Douglas. Perthshire soprano, Colleen Nicoll will lament in her role as the heartbroken Seal-Sister, while the all-knowing Cailleach, originally performed by Marjory Kennedy-Fraser, will be sung by Austrian Mezzo-Soprano, Ulrike Wutscher. Completing the cast will be baritone Michael Longden, who will perform the role of the grieving Water-Kelpie. The production will be accompanied by a professional Chamber Orchestra and conducted by Gordon Cree..
The Scots Opera Project is a professional opera company who have performed live on BBC Radio Scotland’s Classics Unwrapped and STV’s The Riverside Show and in 2019, was nominated for both a Scots Language Award and Scottish Gaelic Award in Arts and Culture.
Cast
The Cailleach - Ulrike Wutscher
The Seal-Woman - Sioned Gwen Davies
The Seal-Sister - Colleen Nicoll
The Islesman/Director - David Douglas
Fisherman/Water-Kelpie - Michael Longden
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Musical Director/Conductor - Gordon Cree
