The Sheridan family are preparing for a garden party when the cook tells them that there has been an accident at the poor people’s house down the road and a man has died. Laura, one of the sisters, wants to stop the party and to go and pay her respects, but everyone else protests, insisting that she is being too extravagant. The mother does not think it concerns them at all, but suggests that Laura takes them the left over food after the party. This she does, and uncomfortably is asked to view the body.

Cast:
• Laura - Soprano
• Meg - Soprano
• Jose - Mezzo
• Mrs Sheridan - Mezzo
• Laurie - Mezzo
• Sadie the maid - Soprano
• Cook - Mezzo
• Emily Scott - Soprano
• Sister - Soprano
• Chorus of guests and neighbours

This Small Opera by Christopher Meux (from the play written by Katherine Mansfield) has been commissioned by the Little Opera Company to give the students of Queen’s College main roles while working with excellent young singers. It is a very exciting collaboration and we look forward to the world premiere at Easter 2010, at Queen’s College.