Manuel Penella’s zarzuela in concert version
On 17 October 2026, the Palau de la Música de València will host a concert version of El gato montés, a zarzuela composed by Manuel Penella in 1916. This work, one of the most representative of the Spanish lyric genre, tells a story of love, jealousy, and honour set in rural Andalusia. The plot revolves around Soleá, a young gypsy woman; Rafael «El Macareno», a bullfighter; and Juanillo «El Gato Montés», a bandit, whose conflicts lead to a tragic ending.
Penella’s music, full of passion and popular rhythms, includes iconic pieces such as the Intermedio and the Canción del Gato Montés, which have transcended the zarzuela genre. On this occasion, the work will be performed without theatrical staging, focusing on its musical and vocal richness.
Performers: three historic ensembles from Valencia
The concert will feature:
- Escolanía de Nuestra Señora de los Desamparados: the boys’ choir of Valencia Cathedral, with over seven centuries of history.
- Coral Catedralicia de València: the cathedral’s adult choir, specialising in sacred and symphonic-choral music.
- Orquesta de València: the city’s foremost symphony orchestra, founded in 1943.
The performance will be conducted by Rubén Sánchez Vieco, who will lead these ensembles in interpreting Penella’s score.
Practical information
- Date and time: 17 October 2026 at 19:00.
- Duration: approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes, including an interval.
- Tickets: prices range from €25 to €85, with discounts for students, seniors (65+), and groups. Tickets are available on the Palau de la Música website.
- Age recommendation: no restrictions, but suggested for ages 7 and up due to the work’s duration and complexity.
