Catriona and the Dragon
“Let the sky be clear,
Let the earth be green,
Let the waters run deep and plentiful,
Let the paths I walk be unseen.”
Catriona and the Dragon (2023)
A community opera | 60 minutes
Composed by Lliam Paterson
Soprano, mezzo-soprano, baritone; youth soloist, adult chorus, youth chorus and children’s chorus; orchestra (orchestration by request)
Commissioned by Lammermuir Festival
Premiere: Dunbar, April 2023
An eco-fairytale for our times
Teenage Queen Catriona’s kingdom is threatened by destruction by a fearsome dragon beyond the Bridge to Nowhere. After repeatedly running from her responsibilities, she ultimately finds the courage to cross over to the beast’s lair, sword in hand. When she returns, miraculously alive, she summons the citizens of the land to her court to tell them what she has discovered about the real blight in Beagland…
A powerful story about leadership, community and responsibility.
“The county, and Lammermuir Festival, can be justly proud of its talented people, making such a vibrant show in this terrific wee venue.”
— Vox Carnyx
Photo: Rob McDougal