Can one irresistible tune save an entire town from disaster?
Adventure, magic, and a lesson about keeping promises — delivered with theatrical charm and melodies that will stick with you long after the piper leaves town.
DIVE DEEPER
- This is Calgary Opera's first presentation of The Pied Piper of Hamelin, written by Seymour Barab — also the creator of our 2025 family-friendly opera, Little Red Riding Hood.
- What's a Pied Piper, anyway? The word "pied" means multicoloured clothing, and the image of the traveling stranger has been a fixture in folk tales since the Middle Ages.
- In this story, the Pied Piper claims to be a rat-catcher who, with the help of his magical pipe, can solve the infestation that plagues the town of Hamelin, Germany.
- The story of the Pied Piper may have its roots in true history; the present-day town of Hamelin sees tourists flock to its Pied Piper- and rat-themed landmarks and attractions.
- Join us before the show for costume dress-up, an opera storybook zone, arts and crafts, and more. Make your own Calgary Opera debut with an audience participation moment in the show!
- There's some irony in presenting Pied Piper in Alberta! The province has been essentially rat-free since 1950, when the Rat Control Program was established.
- Music and words by Seymour Barab
- Runtime: 45m without intermission
- Sung in English
- Seating is by general admission
- A Q&A with the artists is held after each show