The
Calypso
Classical
Fusion

AN
ACT
OF
PIRACY

A new opera for Wales: betrayal, power and the high seas.

WORLD PREMIER: 22 November 2025

About

Wales and Trinidad are connected by the Atlantic slave trade. This calypso/classical opera An Act of Piracy explores our shared histories in an opera party – what does the past mean today. How can friendship help us. Two artists, one from Trinidad, one from Wales, come together and invite you on an adventure...

This opera party opens in a rum shop in Trinidad’s capital Port of Spain. Britain invaded the island in 1797. Calypsos are Trinidadian street songs telling of everyday life. A confused boy from west Wales enters, fleeing from pirates, his head stuffed with sea songs. But in this life and death turmoil, who actually are the pirates?

Performance Details

Show: Two Acts, One Interval
Run Time: Approx. 100 Minutes
Age: Suitable for 10+

Warnings:

Contains brief pyrotechnical effects.

With...

Richard Parry

Tom

Richard’s extraordinary theatre work has won awards and delighted audiences. Brought up in west Wales, he’s performed widely across Britain and Europe in opera and theatre, sings classical recitals and created beautiful performances at the French Embassy in London, the Senedd in Cardiff, and in the USA.

Richard and Mary-Anne met
whilst building a carnival.

Now see the opera!

Mary-Anne Roberts

Calypso

Trinidadian born singer and artist Mary-Anne Roberts is known for music as diverse as traditional calypso and classical Welsh song, on stages from recital halls and theatres to European night clubs. She is a Turner Prize nominated artist and a lifelong carnival creator.

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Richard and Mary-Anne met when they built this carnival.
Now see the Opera based on their friendship. Join the opera party!

AN ACT OF PIRACY