Composer

:

Xavier Montsalvatge

Genre

:

Opera

Style

:

Opera

Compose Date

:

1948

Average_duration

:

65:17

"El Gato con Botas" is an opera composed by Xavier Montsalvatge, a Spanish composer, in 1948. The opera is based on the famous fairy tale "Puss in Boots" by Charles Perrault. The libretto was written by Nestor Lujan, a Spanish writer, and the opera was premiered on March 22, 1948, at the Teatro de la Zarzuela in Madrid, Spain. The plot of the opera revolves around a clever cat named Perico, who helps his poor master, a miller's son, to win the heart of the beautiful Princess. Perico, who wears a pair of boots, is not an ordinary cat. He is intelligent, cunning, and has a plan to make his master rich and famous. He tricks the King and the Ogre, who is the Princess's suitor, and helps his master to marry the Princess. The opera is divided into three movements. The first movement introduces the characters and sets the scene. The second movement is the most dramatic, where Perico tricks the Ogre and saves his master's life. The third movement is the happy ending, where Perico's plan succeeds, and his master marries the Princess. The music of "El Gato con Botas" is a combination of traditional Spanish music and modern techniques. Montsalvatge uses a variety of instruments, including the guitar, castanets, and percussion, to create a Spanish flavor. The music is light, playful, and full of humor, reflecting the spirit of the fairy tale. One of the characteristics of "El Gato con Botas" is its simplicity. The opera is short, only 45 minutes long, and has a small cast of characters. The music is easy to listen to and understand, making it accessible to a wide audience. The opera is also suitable for children, as it is a fairy tale with a happy ending. In conclusion, "El Gato con Botas" is a charming opera that captures the essence of the fairy tale. Montsalvatge's music is delightful, and the libretto is witty and engaging. The opera premiered in 1948 and has since become a classic of Spanish opera. Its simplicity and accessibility make it a popular choice for both adults and children.

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