The Owl who was Afraid of the Dark' is a new children’s opera by Oliver Rudland based on the story written by Jill Tomlinson. It is about a baby barn owl called Plop with a looming occupational hazard: he’s afraid of the dark. Urged on by his worried parents, he ventures beyond the nest one evening and meets new friends- a troop of scouts and a house cat - who take him on an enchanting journey through the night’s beautiful mysteries.

Supported under Open Call Strand 1: Community/Creative Collaboration, Ballaghaderreen Arts Festival will add this wonderful event to their programme this year. 

A recorder ensemble and a chorus will be created from children from the local community, children will learn from and work with leading professional musicians.

The children’s opera will involve local volunteers, schools, and community groups in its planning and execution. Through the auditioning process the committee will liaise with local schools in the town and beyond therefore raising awareness and anticipation. The performance will rely on audience engagement: Workshops and outreach programs will seek to involve children and families in the creative process and this in turn will seek to build a sense of pride and ownership in the community.

The original music, storytelling, and staging will reflect local culture and heritage. ‘The Owl who was Afraid of the Dark' is genuinely a community opera that has community/creative collaboration at its heart.

Please note that the details of events listed above are provided by the relevant Local Authorities.