The Boy Who Drew Cats

Based on the ancient Japanese folktale, the story was rewritten

Story, Libretto and  Music by Asako Hirabayashi (2023)

Arreola, Brian (Leading Tenor)

Kelvin Chan (Leading Baritone)

Timothy P. Faatz (Tenor)

Sullivan Ojala Helmbolt (baritone)

Justin Staebell (bass)

Momoko Tanno (Narrator) 

Daria Adams (Violin)

Mira Frisch (Cello)

Ivan Konev (Piano)

Max Kuzmyak (Videographer)

6/11/2023 3pm

Sundin Music Hall (Hamline University,1531 Hewitt Ave, St Paul, MN 55104)

Japan America Society of Minnesota presents, world premiere of concert Opera The Boy Who Drew Cats by Award winning composer Asako Hirabayashi, collaborating with award winning international visual artist, Mayumi Amada. Based on the ancient Japanese folktale, rewritten by Asako Hirabayashi, the story is about children’s shortcoming can be a power and strength for their success in their lives. Instead of realistic stage set for the opera, Mayumi create imaginary, spiritual and abstract image on the stage to enhance the message of this opera. Influenced by the spirit and ideologies of Buddhism, Mayumi draws upon the philosophy of Zen to give direction to the creation of her work.

funded by Minnesota State Arts Board