Rimsky-Korsakov: The Golden Cockerel

Pushkin folk tale as comedic opera whose sultry elements expand an Oriental influence. Korsakov portrays the story of Tsar Nicholas II, punished for his cowardice and despotism, using satire to condemn Russia's autocratic ruler.

Janáček: The Cunning Little Vixen

The tale of a quick-witted fox and her escape from confinement for a life in the forest.