Das Schlaue Fuchslein

THE CUNNING LITTLE VIXEN (DAS SCHLAUE FUCHSLEIN) is perhaps Leos Janacek's most endearing and optimistic work. Written in 1923 and heavily influenced by nature and by the folk stories of his homeland, it is one of the last operas by this prominent Czech composer, who died in 1928. Janacek was inspired to write the opera by a newspaper serial that recounted the adventures of Vixen Sharp-ears. It is notoriously challenging to stage, featuring among its characters a pair of foxes, a badger, and some chickens, but the upbeat, fresh, and moving story retains its vitality under any circumstances. This lovely performance features the Orchester der Komischen oper Berlin, conducted by the renowned Vaclav Neumann. Starring are Rudolf Asmus, Ruth Schob-Lipka, Werner Enders, Josef Burgwinkel, and Herbert Rossler.