Three Penelopes

Libretto by Sam Norman, Score by Richie Johnsen

Three Penelopes is a short comic opera loosely based on the myth of Odysseus’s homeward journey…. and his dalliances along the way.

It’s 1905. Millionaire Henry Malavoy has just died – but, as he has no recognised next of kin, his substantial fortunes must pass to the Crown… until a number of mourners claim an unexpected connection with the deceased.

Whose claim is legitimate? Who’ll get the money? And is Henry even really dead?

Watch the clip for a flavour of the farce that ensues.

Three Penelopes received its premiere at the Royal College of Music’s Britten Theatre in 2022, opening their short opera festival. It was brought to life in association with Tête à Tête. The director was Bill Bankes-Jones and the Music Director was Timothy Burke.