ExxonMobil Discovery Series: Mozart: Cats and Mice

Introducing 5th Graders to the World of the Performing Arts

Arts Partner: Mercury Chamber Orchestra

Fine Arts, Reading Language Arts, Science

Mozart: Cats and Mice is a playful reimagining of Mozart’s Bastien & Bastienne, originally composed when he was just twelve years old. In this enchanting adaptation for young audiences, the pastoral lovers are recast as charming mice. When Bastienne suspects Bastien of being swayed by the allure of a glamorous cat-lady, she follows the advice of a wizardly owl and agrees to use a magical disguise to test his loyalty. Mozart’s music soars through this tale of love, loyalty, and a touch of woodland wizardry.

Featuring a new English libretto and vibrant staging, the production blends humor, imagination, and a touch of magic to create a fairy-tale opera experience specially designed for 5th grade audiences. With whimsical costumes, special effects, and a timeless message, Mozart: Cats and Mice delights both seasoned opera lovers and first-time audiences alike.

Learn More about the Hobby Center’s educational programming and future opportunities for Houston school districts.

This project is supported in part by an award from the Houston Mayor’s Office of Cultural Affairs and Mid-America Arts Alliance and The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion 2025 BIG grant.

About Mercury Chamber Orchestra

Antoine Plante, Artistic Director

Since 2000, Mercury Chamber Orchestra has grown from a small period-instrument ensemble into a dynamic arts institution. While expanding our offerings beyond early music, our core vision remains unchanged. We believe that music transforms lives, and all our performances and education programs are developed with the unique purpose of making classical music accessible, fun, and relevant to Houston’s diverse communities.

Music education at every stage of life is a critical part of Mercury’s mission. Mercury musicians engage with HISD schools through semester-long residencies that include ensemble coaching and private lessons, as well as curriculum-based bilingual touring shows, reaching over 6,000 students annually.