Wags & Whiskers: Two O-paw-ras about Family for All Ages

Generously supported by the Regional Arts & Culture Council (RACC) and the University of Portland, our winter double bill features two family-friendly operas that center on animals, found family, and love that lasts fur-ever! Pepito and Meow and Forever are both short operas, making this a purr-fect introduction to opera for listeners of any age!

Pepito by Nicolás Lell Benavides & Marella Martin Koch
Pepito, a lonely shelter dog, misses his old family and his old life. Camila and David, young married professionals, are searching for the perfect dog. As Camila and Pepito form an unshakeable bond, the cracks in Camila and David’s marriage deepen, and Angie, the manager of the shelter, asks them the hard question: are they sure they are ready for this? (Runtime: ~25 minutes)

Meow and Forever by Jodi Goble & Basil Considine
​Bailey is swept away in a whirlwind romance with Asha, neglecting her other obligations…and her best friend, Alex. This drama is looked upon with bemusement by Bailey’s cats – Chester and Nala – who have their own priorities, interjecting themselves into the scenes AND music! Events come to a head when Alex comes over to confront Bailey about her friend-abandonment, and the two affectionately make up just in time for Asha to misconstrue everything. And yes, yes, there is a trio with singing cats. Happy ending guaranteed! ​(Runtime: ~40 minutes)

Run Time: Up to 90 minutes, including an intermission.

ASL Interpretation: available at the Saturday 1/18/25 performance.

Cast & Creative Team

Pepito
Camila: Lindsey Rae Johnson
Angie: Lisa Neher
David: Brandon Michael
Pepito: Timothy Lafolette

Meow and Forever
Bailey: Gina Adorno
Alex: Henriët Fourie
Asha: Lindsey Rae Johnson
Nala: Dru Rutledge
Chester: Lisa Neher

Stage Director: Jeffrey Puukka
Pianist: Susan McDaniel
Creative Team: Kimberly R. Osberg